The Refugee Support Group has opened the Sanctuary Café at the Reading International Solidarity Centre in London Street, replacing the old Global Café.
It works as a public café and a support hub for refugees and people seeking asylum. Weekdays its open 8amto2pm, serving freshly prepared meals and speciality coffee made by refugee chefs, cooks and baristas.
During August the cafe is also open to the public on Saturdays from 8amto4pm, and Sundays will be added in September. From 2.30pm to 4.30pm the space is reserved for the charitys clients to get help and advice.
The charity says every purchase supports its work helping refugees rebuild their lives. Organisers have been forced to correct false social media claims that food and drinks would be free, and say threats have been reported to Thames Valley Police.
The café has a plaque dedicated to Alice Driver, a supporter who died aged 28 of a brain tumour in 2019; her parents remain advocates for the charity.
The Refugee Support Group will focus its use of the space on six priorities: legal support; integration; resettlement; social and economic mobility; mental health and wellbeing; and protecting clients from modern-day slavery and exploitation.
Mayor of Reading Councillor Paul Gittings (Labour, Coley) has chosen the Refugee Support Group as one of his fundraising charities.
You can find out how to donate online.
James Aldridge, Local Democracy Reporter
