Temperatures in Greece are dropping fast and the winter rains have started. Freezing cross winds are blowing refugees' tents away. So many children are at risk. We are all facing difficult and uncertain times this winter. But please put yourself in the shoes of the refugees we support. They have already fled persecution and violence. Now they have to face this winter without basic essentials. The global health crisis brings not only the threat of sickness, but also cuts off vital services due to the restrictions in place to curb it. It is easy to see why so many of the refugees we meet in Athens are starting to lose hope.

So here at Goodwill Caravan we are on a mission. Through our winter appeal we are aiming not just to protect refugees from the harsh winter but also to bring hope and love. With the funds from our winter appeal, we will be replenishing our stocks of essential winter packs containing foil blankets, hats, gloves and scarves, to hand out at our aid distributions. And we are aiming to shelter 6 vulnerable families/unaccompanied minors, and so keep them out of the camps and off the streets this winter. Right now all our shelter units are full and the waiting list just keeps growing.

If everyone gives just a little bit, then by working together we can achieve a lot. Let's spread warmth, hope and love this festive season.