2:31pm Thursday 25th June 2009
By Tomasz Johnson
A FINCHLEY mother has launched an appeal to gather basic necessities for destitute failed asylum seekers.
Caroline Glasner, 43, from North Crescent, has called for women to buy an extra box of sanitary towels to donate to a drop-in centre based in a Finchley synagogue.
Each month up to 200 impoverished people who lack clean clothes, shelter, nappies and even food, attend the centre.
Ms Glasner said: “Month on month, I’ve seen dozens of them plead for sanitary towels from a supply that is way insufficient. It is humbling and heartbreaking knowing these basic necessities are unaffordable.”
The drop-in, at the New North London Synagogue, in East End Road, supports people who have fled war, torture and abuse but have failed in their bids for asylum in the UK.
Without that legal status they cannot work, leaving many living on less than £5 a week.
Ms Glasner, who ran a successful appeal for new underwear last year, first visited the centre when she saw a note in her children’s nursery appealing for a double buggy.
She brought her disused buggy in on her way to her children’s school fete.
She said: “I arrived there with a box of fairy cakes and I couldn’t believe what I saw — 200 people queuing for food. I was just absolutely overwhelmed.
“After that I couldn’t walk away. This was on my doorstep.”
The Audit Committee estimates that hundreds of thousands of refugees may live in appalling conditions having failed in their bids for asylum but too afraid to return home.
Diane Taylor, co-organiser of the drop-in, said: “These asylum seekers, who have had their claims turned down have chosen destitution and a life underground over forced deportation for one reason only — to save their lives.
“This state of affairs shames us all.”
Sanitary towel packs can be sent to JCORE, PO Box 47864, London, NW11 or to donate £1, visit www.jcore.org.uk JCORE will also collect donations which can be arranged by contacting caroline@jcore.org.uk
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