A refugee group has been supporting 40 Rohingya asylum seeker families with basic food needs during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
The Refugee Communities Association of Australia (RCAA) in partnership with Help Himalayan Youth Foundation (HHYF) has provided food items to families who are not receiving support.
The group used its savings and contributions from committee members to provide the support.
RCAA Chairperson Juma Piri Piri said: “If any fellow Australians are able to help us support vulnerable asylum seekers at this time, please contact us so we can make a difference together.”
“I am very proud my team has made a small difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable families overlooked by the system. At this unprecedented time of uncertainty, I urge fellow Australians to think of those temporary visa holders and Asylum Seekers with no job or income, who depend entirely on acts of kindness. Any contribution you can make will contribute to the greater cause of humanity,” Mr Piri Piri said.
Rohingya community leader Mr Faisal Mohammad thanks the RCCA for the assistance.
“This relief food package, especially during Holy month of Ramadan means a lot to our community. As Rohingya we are forgotten people, and we thank the RCAA for supporting our community at this critical time,” Mr Mohammed said.
He said there were up to 70 Rohingya asylum seekers in Victoria on bridging visas who are not eligible for support under current arrangements.
Mr Piri Piri said there was also a need in refugee and asylum seeker communities across Australia during the COVID-19 crisis digital devices, including tablets, laptops and smart phones, for students to study from home.
The RCAA is a refugee-led advocacy organisation. It has established the RCAA COVID-19 Relief Taskforce to support Asylum Seekers and other temporary visa holders and international students affected by the pandemic.
To donate visit the RCAA website: www.rcaoa.org.au or email: admin@rcaoa.org.au
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