‘Tent villages are moved every few days, which prevents children from attending school.’

Although other stories take the headlines, the situation for people seeking refuge in France continues unchanged. Anne M Jones reports on another visit.

by Anne M Jones 22nd February 2019

Rose pink Calais sunrise.
Farewell hugs from friends
Volunteer happiness.

I composed this haiku as I departed Calais, feeling a surge of good feeling that scared me in its inappropriateness. The backdrop was the daily human struggle for refugees’ survival, which remains unchanged here. The warehouse continues to hand out 10,000 meals a week, plus piles of firewood. We in the sewing corner repair numerous items of essential clothes and sleeping bags. There is a safe, familiar glow of warm conviviality between volunteers, contrasting with the bleak environment outside, but our work is unsustainable.