Darwen Asylum Seeker Refugee Enterprise (DARE) hosted a special teddy bears’ picnic during the half term.
Based at Central United Reformed Church in Darwen, DARE’s picnic offered a fun afternoon for local families and provided a chance to welcome the children whose parents usually attend the midweek parent drop-in.
A key aim of the picnic, held in October, was to help families, especially asylum seekers and refugees, feel more confident in engaging with local Police Community Officers (PCOs). The relaxed setting allowed the children and their families to meet in a safe and relaxed setting which helped to reduce fear and build trust.
The Revd Daleen Ten Cate, Mission Enabler for North Western Synod, said: “As we watched barriers dissolve between uniforms and families, we were reminded that ‘perfect love drives out fear’ (1 John 4:18). This simple picnic became a living example of Christ’s call to hospitality and trust-building, demonstrating how small acts of welcome can transform perceptions and create lasting bonds within our community.”
Children enjoyed games such as pass-the-parcel, a teddy bear hunt, and even the chance to try on police uniforms and explore the patrol vehicle.
Daleen, added: “Attendees enjoyed an abundance of food, including pasta, cakes, sweet treats, and even a fun popcorn machine. This plentiful spread was a gift from our generous community. DARE, which hosted the event and is founded on principles of Hope, Peace, Inclusion, Safety, Love, Kindness, and Respect, meant that everyone felt truly welcome at the event.”
Gemma Garcete, DARE’s new Operations Manager, was also welcomed at the event. With experience in ESOL teaching, foodbank management, and youth and family work, alongside fluency in multiple languages and time spent living in four countries, Gemma brings a wealth of cross-cultural insight and compassion to the role.
Gemma said: “I am delighted to join the team as Operations Manager. The welcome has been wonderful, and it is a privilege to work alongside such experienced and dedicated staff and volunteers. I look forward to contributing to the great work being done.”