Home for our Charity

DAR is so pleased to share the incredible journey we’re on with Refugees and Asylum Seekers Together (RAST)! From welcoming our very first employee to launching life-changing initiatives, our community is thriving like never before. Here's a glimpse into our vibrant world:

**Meet Our Office Manager: The Game Changer**

We’ve appointed our first Office Manager, and we couldn’t be more excited! This key player is set to supercharge our efforts, helping us establish a base and expand the vital support we offer to asylum seekers and refugees.

**Introducing RAST: A Beacon of Hope and Resilience**

Say hello to RAST – a group of extraordinary individuals who bring firsthand experience of the British asylum system. Their wisdom and strength are guiding us in creating an accessible, welcoming base for all, ensuring we stay attuned to the ever-changing needs of those seeking sanctuary in the UK.

**Sewing Group: Crafting Dreams with Every Stitch**

Our sewing group is buzzing with creativity! Thanks to the donation of four new sewing machines, 22 enthusiastic asylum seekers (including two men) are busy crafting beautiful bunting for the Darlington Community Carnival and aprons for our Multicultural Cooking Club. The pièce de résistance? A giant community quilt that will grace our new base, providing warmth and a sense of belonging. Imagine children snuggling under it as circus performers dazzle them with their acts! Thanks to funding from the County Durham Community fund for getting us started. A huge shoutout also to the Newcastle Building Society staff in Darlington for generously offering their community room free of charge. Your support is making magic happen!

**Multicultural Cooking Club: Where Cultures and Flavors Unite**

Our cooking club is on fire! Three of our talented chefs have already earned their Food Safety qualifications. During a recent combined craft workshop and cooking session, we served up delicious meals to 30 people in one day. Our Iranian circus performers, now granted leave to remain, have been delighting our chefs' children with their circus skills workshops during holiday sessions. It's a beautiful fusion of cultures and talents!

**Refugee Week: Celebrating Unity and Triumph**

Refugee Week was a whirlwind of joy and achievements! We proudly entered four teams in the Justice First International Tournament, making it to the quarter-finals for the first time and clinching the Curtiss Fleming award. One of our star players is even being trialed with Darlington Football Club – talk about dreams coming true!

Our events at the Forum Music Centre in Darlington were a hit:

- **Games Night Extravaganza:** Bingo in multiple languages, bringing everyone together for a night of fun.

- **Film Night:** Screening "Limbo," followed by a heartfelt discussion led by our treasured refugees from Syria and Russia.

- **Music Night:** A packed house enjoying mesmerizing performances on the tabla, oud, and more.

- **Community Walk:** A serene stroll around the river, celebrating unity and the beauty of our diverse community.

**The Road Ahead: Building Our Future Together**

We’re tirelessly applying for funding to establish our permanent base and explore every possible avenue. With your support, we know we can achieve this dream.

Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Together, we’re transforming lives and building a brighter future for all.

Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s keep this momentum going!