Story: Louise Johnson | Photo: Lisa Swift
Elodie All Sainte, a new African support group, is setting up in the Verdon Recreation Centre.
In the last few years, there has been a steady and significant increase in the number of people from various African countries settling in Sheffield. Occasionally the move is difficult and frightening, with some people arriving as refugees or asylum seekers. Concerns about isolation and access to appropriate services have been raised. The organisation, a private limited company with charitable objectives, was created by a group of African professionals who wished to tackle issues affecting their community. Chairperson Emmanuel Kei says,
“We have set up the group because it is important to encourage our children and provide activities and education from an African background. We want people from different African backgrounds to come together to share our culture and to support each other.”
Issues the group want to address include education, health, isolation, poverty, crime, housing and racial harassment. The organisation also finds it important to create opportunities for greater integration.
Elodie All Sainte have an open day on 30th March at Verdon Recreation Centre, 10.30am -12.30pm. Free entry.
For more information, contact Emmanuel on 07897 138 745 or Mozes on 07914 615 504.