In light of the current crisis, Pope Francis has asked every parish to welcome one refugee family. Archbishop Bernard Longley writes that, taken literally, "this may be difficult for all sorts of reasons. However, there are helpful ways in which every parish and every parishioner can respond to this challenge."

Caritas in the Archdiocese of Birmingham is co-ordinating a diocesan response. Many agencies are already providing support, including St Chad's Sanctuary (Birmingham), Brushstrokes (Smethwick) and Hope (Wolverhampton). The Columban Fathers, the Saint John of God Brothers and the Passionist Fathers are offering much needed hospitality. And the Archdiocese is working ecumenically with Restore (Birmingham) and the Welcome Group (Solihull).

Father Hudson's Care has set up this fund for distribution by Caritas in the Archdiocese of Birmingham, to help those refugees and asylum seekers most in need.