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"Our Lord has written the promise of resurrection, not in books alone, but in every leaf in springtime." – Martin Luther King Jr.

At this special time of year, we have books to inspire and delight you. Accompany your little ones 'On the Road to Emmaus' or through 'Via Lucis: The Way of the Light'. Or perhaps, reflect with Fr Michael on the Gospel resurrection narratives in 'Alive'.

Salesian Cooperator’s 'Virtual Grandad Walk' for destitute asylum seekers

Salesian Cooperator’s 'Virtual Grandad Walk' for destitute asylum seekers

Posted: Thu, 28 May 2020 17:27

Salesian Cooperator’s 'Virtual Grandad Walk' for destitute asylum seekers

For Refugee Week, Paul Barnes, Salesian Cooperator, former BOVA volunteer and Shrigley Old Boy, raised funds for the Bolton Destitution Project with a sponsored Virtual Grandad Walk. Between the 20 April and 20 May, Paul strolled 167 miles around Bolton to clock up the equivalent of a trip to see his grandchildren in Hemel Hempstead. (Photo: Bolton News)

Paul is Coordinator of the Bolton Destitution Centre's drop-in, which provides a range of support to asylum seekers, including advice, English classes, friendship, and parcels of basic food and toiletries. While an asylum seeker's claim is being processed, they are not allowed to work or claim benefits, and can be moved anywhere in the UK. They are given basic accommodation and around £5 a day to live on. Many become destitute during lengthy and complex claim processes, making food parcels even more of a necessity. During lockdown, the drop-in has been closed, and the project has had to give out supermarket vouchers instead of donated food, which has placed a strain on its finances. Paul thought the virtual walk would be a great way to help.

Paul says, "My Salesian vocation has inspired me to do this to help these very vulnerable members of our Bolton community, many of whom have young children, something I believe Don Bosco would support."

The project is still collecting donations for Paul's walk, so if you would like to add to the total, you can send a cheque to The Destitution Project, Victoria Hall, Knowsley Street, Bolton, BL1 2AF, or visit their website, linked below, for more ways to help.

Read the full story on the Bolton News

Tags: BOVA, Homepage, Past Pupils, Salesians of Don Bosco