Stall in Brecon Artisan Market - Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees

Brecon Artisan market allowed us to have a stall to raise the profile of our group and given the recent reports, we opted to to raise some money for the Disasters Emergency Committee[ DEC] appeal for Afghanistan. The stall was organised by Penny and Andrew Leonard and a rota of volunteers-Jackie, Lis, Margaret, Pat, David (Goffee), Rowland and Ailsa were also in attendance during the day. It was a good opportunity to talk to people about what HBTSR does, our thoughts and fears about the Nationality and Borders Bill and about the crisis in Afghanistan. We also had our collection of soft toys looking for new homes [and friends] each bearing details of our group and a message about how and why they need help and care. At least 50 were re-homed and parents given details about HBTSR. Thanks is due to Dial-a-ride for topping up our collection of toys prior to the event .

A wonderful surprise visitor was Thanu and family who were visiting Brecon! She shared the good news that the Welsh Government has agreed to pilot free travel for people seeking asylum. She also emphasised how much our friendship and support is valued in Swansea.

a sample of ‘Refugee Toys’

We raised £222.19 and HBTSR trustees have opted to raise this to £450 to help with the crisis. And Penny Has also since managed to sell some books and accepted some other donations! And several new people have joined the group.

Thanks to everyone who helped on the stall and to all donors.

Meanwhile there is an HBTSR Tree in Llangorse festival of Christmas trees. and the decorations on the main village tree includes some orange hearts.