Treberfydd House was the stunning setting which greeted more than 40 asylum seekers for a day of welcome, fun and food.
The day was organised by Hay, Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees (HBTSR) and hosted by Treberfydd’s owners, David Raikes and Carla Rapoport.
HBTSR’s Ailsa Dunn said: “Each time we plan a welcome day, we worry about whether we will have enough people to help, enough food, enough gifts for people to take away, and whether the weather will be okay.
“On this occasion, there were especial worries as several of the usual coordinators were away or ill, the venue rural and sparsely populated, and quite a lot of equipment was needed, but we needn’t have worried as our magnificent supporters had rallied round, enlisted some new helpers and reached out to friends.”
When the bus arrived from Swansea with 41 people onboard there were more than 60 people ready with hosts Carla and David to welcome them, provide a hot drink, a run down about the day and fruit and biscuits.
Tours of the house were very popular among visitors and supporters alike and Carla was asked if she was part of the royal family.
There were pony rides around the grounds for the children, face-painting and crafts, and Alex Benfield's pizza oven helped to keep everyone fed. We even had music during the afternoon to serenade people.
The day was also an opportunity for members to offer help and advice.
“Some paracetamol for toothache allowed us to talk about how to seek emergency dental treatment and opportunities were found to discuss future plans now refugee status was achieved,” Ailsa said. “And requests for specific kitchen equipment and hardship expenditure were all fitted in around everything else.”
“Carla and David said how much they had enjoyed everyone’s company, hoped we would return and that the joy of so many people was infectious.”
As always, there were very many people involved and as well as thanking Carla and David and all our usual supporters for turning out I'd also like to acknowledge the help and generosity of the Glasbury Crafters , The Plate People, The Walled Garden, Sarah Jakeman and Ty Mawr.
Maria Nicholas, a Volunteer from Swansea said: “Many thanks to David and Carla for their generosity, empathy and open-hearted welcome to a group of people that, in everyday life, do not generally feel welcome.
“All of this would not have been possible without the dedication, love and seriously hard work of the team from Hay Brecon and Talgarth Sanctuary for Refugees, who unfailingly provide a professional and quality welcome, which in my view is unparalleled.
If you would like to read more about HBTSR please see the Website https://hbtsr.cityofsanctuary.org or Facebook page.www.facebook.com/groups/hbtsr
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