Media Centre

Asylum seekers raise funds for bushfire victims

Publish Date: 15/05/2009
Author: Marketing & Communications Dept.

Asylum seekers with no work rights, no medical benefits and no source of income have raised close to $1000 for bushfire victims in Kinglake, by hosting a multicultural banquet.

The asylum seekers, including 13 residents at Sanctuary, the supported housing facility operated by Baptcare, raised the funds by utilising their cooking skills and other talents.

The event attracted close to 90 participants, including 18 asylum seekers, residents from Kinglake, local church members and other community guests.

Sanctuary’s Pastoral Care Worker, Rev Meewon Yang, said the event was a call to action initiated by the asylum seekers who wanted to assist the bushfire victims in some way. “The asylum seekers were deeply affected by Black Saturday as they could relate to the feeling of having nothing.

“As the asylum seekers have no work rights, they were not able to donate money and their offers to help directly in the clean-up could not be accepted due to legal and safety concerns. A dinner with entertainment became the most appropriate way to help out as it integrated their skills and talents,” Rev Yang said.

The event featured a range of dishes, all prepared by the asylum seekers, including African and Sri Lankan cuisine. Besides hearty food, the asylum seekers also provided musical entertainment and a spot of trivia.

Baptcare’s Chief Executive, Mr Jeff Davey, said the event symbolised the power of humanity in a time of great tragedy.

“The asylum seekers at Sanctuary are some of the most vulnerable individuals in the community. To implement an initiative where they were able to support other vulnerable members of the community is remarkable.

“This unique fundraiser has brought people from all walks of life together, who all share the common link of losing loved ones or possessions and even facing homelessness,” Mr Davey said.