Syrian refugees to be welcomed on board with Windermere Lake Cruises for Mitzvah Day
Published: 18th November 2018
A group of around 25 refugees from Syria, recently resettled in Cumbria, are to be welcomed on board one of Windermere Lake Cruises’ vessels in November, as part of Mitzvah Day, a special Jewish-led community day of celebration.
The international, interfaith event, brings together groups of people from all walks of life and is again being held in Hawkshead on November 18 after last year’s successful debut which saw residents and National Trust members plant 800 trees, collect clothing for the Manna House charity and set up a food bank initiative.
This year, organisers worked with local attractions including Windermere Lake Cruises to give Cumbria’s newest residents an extra complimentary treat as part of their weekend of relaxation and enjoyment.
Organiser Abigail Mann says, “We want this Mitzvah Day event to help the refugees with integration, language and to develop relationships with the local community. The refugees have had little opportunity to explore the beautiful surroundings in which they find themselves and we’re so grateful to Windermere Lake Cruises for kindly donating this trip out on the lake. The refugees are all different ages and have had differing experiences.
“Some are families with children and I am sure that they will love the cruise on Windermere. The aim is to give the refugees an enjoyable day out and to create lasting memories for everyone involved. They don’t all know each other, so we also hope to create a ‘buddy system’ allowing for long term friendships to be forged”.
Nigel Wilkinson, Managing Director of Windermere Lake Cruises, says, “We’re delighted to welcome this group of refugees from Syria on board one of our vessels. Thousands of men, women and children have risked their lives to flee their country to find peace, which is something there’s no shortage of here in The Lake District, Cumbria.
“Mitzvah Day is an important community event for Syrian people and Cumbria itself is very much a county where community spirit thrives. We feel privileged to be in a position where we can offer them this experience, and we look forward to making them feel even more welcome in November. We’re very confident that our special guests will have a wonderful time on board with us; and will finally get that feeling of calm they have craved for in recent years. Where better than in this beautiful part of the world?”
In return for the complimentary activities and for Hawkshead again hosting the event, the refugees will also prepare a Middle Eastern meal for local residents as a special thank you.
