The great work of St Chad’s Sanctuary and why they need you
St Chad’s Sanctuary provides welcome, friendship and practical support for asylum seekers and refugees in need.
Established in 2010, the charity works in partnership with the Infant Jesus Sisters, the Salvation Army, the Archdiocese of Birmingham and Father Hudson’s Care. Based in central Birmingham near St Chad’s Cathedral, it prioritises support for vulnerable and destitute asylum seekers and refugees.
Through a team of over 100 active volunteers and a small team of sessional workers, St Chad’s Sanctuary delivers a number of services:
- Provides practical items to those in need including food, clothing, household items, hygiene products, suitcases and bags, baby equipment, toys and bikes;
- Offers ESOL (English to Speakers of other Languages) sessions at a number of levels;
- Offers welfare support;
- Runs creative classes and social support including art, singing, creative writing, and trips;
- Provides family support activities, including open classes for children without a school placement, family learning and a parent and pre-school group.
St Chad’s Sanctuary provides essential help and support to men, women and children. They recently supported Naz and his family:
“This place is very, very good for me and my family. Each time I come I can choose clothes for us all. I can’t afford toys or books for my son so it helps me very much to find these things here. I am so grateful that there is always a welcome for us when we come and the people are so kind. If I can’t carry everything they help me to carry things down the stairs. We are very, very grateful for this good help. I cannot say enough thank yous.”
Donations
St Chad’s Sanctuary has an ongoing need for donations of food, clothing and household items. Any donations can be taken to St Chad’s Sanctuary, 72-74 Shadwell Street, Birmingham, B4 6HA. Tel: 0121 233 3127 (weekdays during term time, core hours 10:30am to 3:00pm)
Donations can also be brought to Father Hudson’s Care, St George’s House, Gerards Way, Coleshill, Birmingham, B46 3FG during office hours.
Volunteering at St Chad’s Sanctuary
St Chad’s sanctuary relies on its team of dedicated volunteers to deliver services. If you would like to get involved and volunteer please visit the website for more information.
Jo Watters, Father Hudson’s Care