‘Mindblowing’ year for refugee aid group

The Massive Outpouring of Love (MOOL) group put out a ‘call to arms’ last year to help those in need.
Just a week after launching, there were 30 hubs collecting aid from about 2000 people locally, which was then sent across the globe.
Founder Moxie DePaulitte said: “People from all backgrounds, faiths, political viewpoints, sexual orientations, genders and races came together with a united aim – to help fellow human beings who were suffering.
“It’s been an absolutely mind-blowing year. The people of Dumfries and Galloway have really stepped up, and there are no words to thank the volunteers who have worked tirelessly.”
Over the last 12 months, MOOL has distributed over 40 tonnes of aid to Calais, Syria, Lebanon, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, Iraq and beyond.
They also helped those affected by the winter floods in Carlisle.
Furthermore, they were involved in welcoming the first refugee families to the area via the UK Government’s Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme.
Moxie said: “We have funded caravans to go overseas to provide a safe haven for expectant mothers and to act as mobile dental units; supported community kitchens in camps, and funded volunteers to provide practical help overseas where it is needed most.
“MOOL has worked closely with schools and other organisations to educate around the refugee crisis and challenge misconceptions.”
Funding from the Voluntary Action Fund and New Beginnings has helped the group.
To celebrate their anniversary, a new fundraising drive – Drop Your Pants – is also being launched to collect new, unused underwear.
Moxie added: “Unfortunately the crisis is not going away and we still need your help in order for us to help others. When MOOL began there were around 3500 adults in the camps in Calais and approximately 100 children: a year later there are closer to 9000 adults and 900 children living in a space a third of the original size.”
To find out more and how to get involved, go to www.facebook.com/DGRefugeeAction