Thanks for taking the time to visit our JustGiving page.

We're asking guests and well-wishers to help make our big day even more special by helping us raise money to fund the weekly football sessions Jake organises for Tunbridge Wells Welcomes Refugees (TWWR).
facebook.com/tunbridgewellswelcomesrefugees
tw-welcomesrefugees.org

Having been together for a decade(!) already, there's very little we need in the way of traditional 'wedding' gifts, but supporting TWWR's work welcoming and supporting refugees arriving in Tunbridge Wells is a cause close to both of our hearts. They help relocated families and unaccompanied asylum-seeking children with issues such as housing, mentoring and social engagement.

Back in early 2018, Jake set up a project for TWWR with a vision to bring together refugees (and others) for regular 5 or 6-a-side football with quality equipment and facilities that we could all be proud of. Well over a year on and it's been a huge hit, finding a home on Bennett's shiny new 3G pitches and drawing consistent numbers of well over a dozen players of all ages each and every week.

A bit of football may seem quite mundane, but it really can have a enormously positive impact on people's lives. Once the immediate needs of housing, food and legal advice are met, social, emotional and physical well-being are vital. Sport, and football in particular, can play a huge role whilst also supporting social integration and building language skills. (Chasing after some of the younger lads keeps Jake fit too, although his Arabic isn't getting much better yet!)

As the world's most popular sport, football can cross social, cultural and linguistic boundaries, and provide a cathartic space where players can switch off from their everyday troubles or past experiences. It also offers continuity from previous lives, helping to maintain personal identities and positive mental states. The power and importance of these opportunities shouldn't be underestimated.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Jake & Melissa x