Charity finds new storage after Guernsey Press appeal

Friends of Romania collects, transports and distributes humanitarian aid in the form of clothing, bedding and toys to those in need in Romania.

It had been told the private store it had been using for the last nine years was no longer available.

Since the appeal, the charity has received four offers of help and has accepted a site in the Forest.

‘We would like to thank all at the Guernsey Press for the very generous coverage of our appeal for storage for the Friends of Romania’s goods,’ said the charity’s co-ordinators, Wilf and Patricia Holland.

‘The appeal was a great success with four offers within hours of publication – it really was beyond our expectations.’

They are hoping to move in as soon so they can.

Then, when it is possible, fill their van with one-tonne loads and drive across multiple borders to deliver aid several times a year.

Once able to travel, they will go to Bistrita, a city in the Transylvania region, and included within the donations are some 300 delayed Christmas presents addressed by name to children.

Three to four tonnes of aid has now accumulated due to Covid-caused border restrictions and Brexit Customs procedure complications which has seen the charity request people temporarily not to donate any items.

‘We are sorry that we cannot accept second-hand goods at present, we must clear what stocks we have,’ the Hollands added.

‘This we cannot do until the Covid restrictions across Europe allow and we know what regulations will change due to Brexit.

‘We are however, still accepting new knitted and crocheted goods from our wonderful army of unsung heroes.’

They thanked the owners of their previous storage facility.

. Anyone with queries can call 255129 or email wilf.holland@cwgsy.net.