5 ways to support refugees this festive season
This festive season, support refugees and let your shopping make a difference.
27.11.24
1. Breadwinners: baked goods that empower lives
What they do: Breadwinners is a social enterprise helping refugees and young asylum seekers access employment by selling artisan bread at farmers’ markets and through subscriptions. Every loaf represents not just quality baking but also a pathway to independence and stability for those displaced from their homes.
Why support them: Whether it’s sourdough, baguettes, or sweet treats, Breadwinners’ goods make perfect festive gifts or a delicious addition to your holiday treats. When you shop with Breadwinners, you are in turn supporting young refugees and people seeking asylum into employment through baked goods.
How to shop: Visit their website here or find them at markets across London. Your purchase directly supports their training programs and refugee employees.
2. MADE51: handcrafted gifts with a global impact
What they do: MADE51 collaborates with refugees around the world to create beautiful, handcrafted products. From intricately woven baskets to stunning textiles, every item tells the story of skilled artisans rebuilding their lives.
Why support them: These unique, high-quality products are perfect for thoughtful, one-of-a-kind gifts while ensuring refugee artisans receive fair wages and opportunities. Buying from MADE51 doesn’t just get you a beautiful hand-made product; your purchase means MADE51’s work with refugee artisans continues.
How to shop: Explore their online collection of home decor, accessories, and festive ornaments to find the perfect gift that gives back on their website here.
Aziza crafts a beaded star in Cairo in April 2024. © UNHCR/Jaime Giménez
3. Paktious Gifts: personalised presents with purpose
What they do: Paktious Gifts is a refugee-owned brand specialising in bespoke, eco-friendly products that resonate with the values of sustainability and wellness. Popular items include handcrafted candles, natural lip balm, calming oils, infused tea, scented waxes and much more options depending on the occasion. Whether it’s customisable items such as engraved jewellery, accessories and personalised stationery. Every product reflects craftsmanship and creativity.
Why support them: A Paktious gift is both personal and impactful, offering a way to show someone you care while supporting refugee entrepreneurs who are rebuilding their lives.
How to shop: Contact Paktious Gifts via email here.
4. UK for UNHCR: give the gift of warmth
What we do: This winter, you can support refugees and other forcibly displaced people by making a donation to UK for UNHCR on behalf of a loved one.
Why support us: Instead of material gifts, share the spirit of giving by making a life-changing donation in someone’s name. Your gesture provides immediate relief and hope to those in crisis.
How to shop: Visit our website here to make a donation, and a meaningful impact this festive season.
People living in rural areas of Kyiv region that were affected by the war at the start of the invasion were provided with the Rapid Thermal Kits helping them to insulate their homes and stay warm during the cold winter. © UNHCR/Iryna Tymchyshyn
5. Migrateful: cooking classes that celebrate culture
What they do: Migrateful hosts in-person and online cooking classes led by refugee and migrant chefs. These classes celebrate culinary traditions from around the globe while providing chefs with valuable skills and income.
Why support them: Gift a cooking class experience or join one yourself to learn authentic recipes and hear inspiring stories while supporting refugees in their journey toward independence.
How to shop: Check out their class schedule online or purchase gift vouchers for a memorable and meaningful experience here.
By supporting these businesses, you not only find unique, heartfelt gifts but also contribute to a brighter future for refugees and asylum seekers. This festive season, let your shopping make a difference.
