West Berkshire council reach community goods donation target for Afghan evacuees staying in Berkshire

WEST Berkshire Council has reached its community goods donation target for Afghan families in the district.

The Afghan families that are temporarily staying in two hotels in West Berkshire arrived on September 3.

A call for donations was made on September 8 to give the families access to essential items during their stay.

All requested items were gifted by local residents and businesses, and the council’s donation target was met within four days.

Leader of West Berkshire Council, Lynne Doherty (Con, Speen) said: “We have been overwhelmed by the generosity shown already by residents and businesses and I would like thank everyone who has donated clothing or other essential items to help us to welcome our guests.

“To have received all that we need so quickly is a real credit to the local community.

“We owe a huge debt to those who have served alongside British Forces at great personal risk and it’s great to see that local people have been so keen to help.”

Financial donations can still be made on the Good Exchange page, for those who wish to help further.

The Good Exchange page has already raised almost £10,000, which includes match funding of up to £25,000 from Greenham Trust.

Mrs Doherty added: “The Good Exchange fundraising link remains active for those who wish to make a financial contribution, which we hope will help them to build their lives in their new homes across the UK.”