With so many of you asking us how things are progressing post Brexit and during the never ending drama that is COVID-19 it is great at long last to bring you some good news!
We have been working with other UK based NGO’s to navigate the customs and taxation hurdles that have resulted from the new rules following Brexit. It is fair to say that the focus for HMRC and EU countries was, understandably, upon commercial goods. The implications for Humanitarian Aid weren’t considered until the issue was raised by the NGO community.
Whilst the customs and duties challenges are not yet entirely resolved, we have made significant progress and are now in a position where we can plan to resume aid to the refugees and asylum seekers in Greece.
Until the pandemic situation is resolved, we plan to continue with container shipment model rather than manned convoys, to ensure the much needed aid reaches those that really need it.
Working with our in-country partners, we have established a ‘Needs List’ of the following items:
- Men's summer clothes (clean and good condition) particularly small and medium sizes.
- Men's trainer type shoes, most popular sizes are 40, 42 and 44. They need to be in good condition and suitable for summer use (pairs tied together).
- New underwear for all genders and all sizes.
- Blankets, ideally large enough for a single adult.
We have limited storage capacity currently but will centralise and/or collect once we have a date confirmed. If you plan to collect in response to this initiative, please let us know by email.
We know that you are all as keen as we are to resume our help for the NGO’s on the ground and of course the refugees.
We are thankful that many of you have continued to fundraise during the lockdown and those funds are very much needed. Please keep it going.
Let’s get back in business and hope that the worst of the pandemic (and Brexit) is behind us.
