The Boaz Trust have set up a network of other organisations providing accommodation to destitute asylum seekers across the UK called NACCOM (standing for No Accommodation).  This is a fantastic way to share ideas and expertise, and to encourage one another.  It is also a good way for people who are interested in setting something up in their own area to find out what is already being done and how they do it.  On Saturday 30th January 2010 NACCOM will be holding its national conference in London.  The conference will run from 11-5 at Praxis, Pott Street, London E2 0EF.  Contact tatiana.tomayeva@praxis.org.uk for more details or to book in.  You can download a flyer here.

To find details of projects near you check out the NACCOM page, drop us an email or call us on 0161 202 1056.

On New Year’s Day the Boaz Trust will be at Bury’s stadium to benefit from FC United’s Big Coat Day.  Fans will be asked to bring along their old winter coats, blankets, gloves, hats and scarves to be collected at the match and given to the homeless and destitute, including those cared for by the Boaz Trust.  The celebrations begin at 2pm at Gigg Lane, Bury, followed by FC United of Manchester vs Osset Town at 3pm.  Tickets cost £7.50 and can be purchased at the turnstiles.  For further information on FC United please visit www.fc-utd.co.uk.

One of our residents took some time this week to describe the difference the Boaz Trust has made in her life:

“Before I came to Boaz Trust last year I was told to leave my NASS accommodation.  I was sleeping on different friend’s sofas.  Every week Boaz gave me a food parcel and they gave me a room with an English family in Manchester.  They were a nice family and I lived there for two months.  I stayed with them over Christmas and they gave me a gift.  The Boaz Trust helped me to apply for Section 4 and I was given support again.  I still come to volunteer at the church coffee shop every Tuesday and to see my friends at Boaz.  I think Boaz is nice, I like it.  The Boaz Trust helps people which is good.” Eden, Eritrea.

Christmas can be a lonely time for asylum seekers like Eden, who are often separated from their families and loved ones.  We are constantly amazed by the generosity of our host families who welcome asylum seekers into their homes and include them in their Christmas celebrations.  Several new hosts have come on board in the last few months which is fantastic – thank you so much!  But there is still a need for more.  If you are interested in offering your spare room to an asylum seeker for a few days, weeks or months, please do get in touch on office@boaztrust.org.uk or 0161 202 1056.