In previous years, the hard-working Laois Integration Network (LIN) would have hosted a Christmas party for children living in Direct Provision.
This year, however, like so many other events, that isn’t possible.
But the group – which has members from a wide range of different bodies including Laois County Council, the HSE and representatives from the local Syrian, Lithuanian, Polish and African communities – has this year organised that every child living in Direct Provision be given a Laois Gift Card.
“We know local businesses have had a very challenging year so we wanted to support them and do our bit so we made a decision to purchase a Laois Gift Card for each of the children in Direct Provision,” says Karen McHugh, who is joint chairperson of Laois Integration Network.
“This donation was made possible with the support of The Department of Justice & Equality Integration funds); Cluid Housing and a further generous donation via the St. Stephens Green Trust from a private family fund, the Lakeside Fund.
“We want to thank all the funders this year – we know a Gift Card will not replace meeting Santa in person but we hope it will bring a bit of happiness to children and families in Direct Provision at this difficult time.
“We hope we will have a bigger and better Christmas party in 2021!
“We also want to thank one local resident Caroline Griffin, who wanted to reach out to children in Direct Provision and set up a Go Fund Me Page to purchase selection boxes for each child in Direct Provision in Laois.
“This is such a lovely gesture of kindness to ensure that each child in our County is included and welcomed during these difficult time.”
Laois Integration Network (LIN) was established in February 2016, initially under the auspices of Doras Luimní Syrian Resettlement Project and since June 2016 as a separate entity comprising of local voluntary, community and statutory organisations as well as individuals from Irish and migrant and diverse faith communities throughout Laois.
LIN is intended to be an interagency and collective approach which promotes integration, celebrates diversity and which challenges racism and discrimination in all forms.
