A charity dedicated to assisting refugees and asylum seekers is partnering with churches and community groups to infuse a sense of festive cheer for those far from their homeland.

Throughout December, the foundation is extending invitations to 2,000 refugees and asylum seekers for Christmas parties hosted in their local communities.

The parties will take place in forty locations, including craft activities, children's parties, and banquets involving singing, games, and drama.

Amidst the prevailing negative discourse surrounding migration and asylum, the Sanctuary Foundation aims to counteract these sentiments by extending a warm invitation to newcomers.

Dr. Krish Kandiah, the founder and director of Sanctuary Foundation, told Christian Today of his delight at partnering with churches and community groups who "do a fantastic job" helping refugees and asylum seekers.

"With all the negative rhetoric currently around in our public life regarding migration and asylum, we have heard from many of our friends who are new arrivals that they are feeling less and less welcome in our nation.
"We want to put that straight by inviting them to a party!"

The initiative has garnered support from major businesses such as Jude's Ice Cream, Tetley, Britvic, Holland and Barrett, Plaids, and KP, all of whom share the goal of offering a heartfelt welcome to those forced to flee conflicts and tragedies.

For many refugees from Ukraine, this holiday season marks their second Christmas spent away from home, underscoring the significance of this practical demonstration of the Christian message underlying the festive period.

"We hope these parties help newcomers to the UK know that many of us are very pleased that they are here and that we are keen to do all we can to support them," Dr Kandiah said.

Over the past year, the foundation has distributed Christmas and Easter gift boxes to more than 4,000 individuals as part of its ongoing efforts to provide support with housing, employment, and overall well-being.