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protestant Church in the Netherlands (pKN) starts action against poverty in the Netherlands

Church congregations throughout Netherlands will collect items for the Food Bank as part of a campaign to combat growing poverty launched by Kerk in Actie, the diaconal arm of Protestant Church in the Netherlands (PKN). The “Together Against Poverty” campaign comes as the Food Bank faces an unprecedented 36 percent increase in demand in the past year, with 120,000 people per week now applying for assistance.

Aiming for a sustainable approach to tackle the issue over the next four years, Kerk in Actie will provide short-term assistance through food packages for the Food Bank and longterm assistance through partnerships with SchuldHulpMaatje Nederland to help people get out of debt or avoid it altogether. united reformed Church (urC) signs joint statement opposing the illegal Migration bill

Rev. Dr Tessa Henry-Robinson, United Reformed Church (URC) General Assembly Moderator-Elect 2022-2023, were among those who delivered the statement opposing the government’s new ‘Illegal Migration Bill’. Along with Dr Henry-Robinson, the statement was handed in to 10 Downing Street by representatives from The Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Methodist Church in Britain, Churches Together in England and Churches Together in Britain and Ireland.

The statement, signed by more than 1450 church leaders from across the UK, urged the government to withdraw the legislation, and establish “safe and accessible routes to enable the UK to play its part in welcoming people in need of safety”.

Dr Henry-Robinson said, “In the face of the UK government’s proposed illegal migration bill, it is essential to remember that our nation’s greatness lies not in turning our backs on those in need, but in embracing our shared humanity and committing to care for all.”

She added, “Across the world’s religions, we find a shared belief in the sacred duty of caring for our neighbours, visitors, strangers, and those seeking help across borders. By upholding these values of compassion and empathy, we can create a society that truly stands out as a beacon of hope for all.”

The full statement and list of signatories can be seen here: https://jpit.uk/response-to-illegalmigration-bill.