End-of-winter tent collection at the France-UK border – crowdfunder launches

Three of Calais Appeal’s members, La Capuche Mobilisée, Utopia 56 & Refugee Women’s Centre, are launching a crowdfunder to purchase urgently needed tents for people stuck at the France-UK border.

Every year, tens of thousands of people on the move spend time at the France-UK border whilst seeking to claim asylum in the UK. In Calais and Dunkirk, at any one time there are around 2,000 people having to sleep outside, in tents or under tarpaulins.

Tent stocks running low

At the end of a winter marked by harsh weather conditions, stocks are currently so limited that single men have to wait up to two weeks to receive a tent through Calais Appeal’s organisations.

This situation of material precarity gets even worse with frequent evictions, which the UK government funds. During these, the French authorities take people’s personal belongings (including tents and sleeping bags) away.

As long ago as 2020, the Canary was reporting that living conditions in Calais could be driving refugees to attempt crossing the channel to the UK.

Utopia 56 works in Calais and Dunkirk with the most vulnerable groups, particularly unaccompanied minors. It distributes emergency supplies such as tents, sleeping bags and other essential items.

Refugee Women’s Centre, also active in Calais and Dunkirk, focuses on supporting women and families. It combines material aid, access to hygiene and medical care, and psychosocial support.

Finally, La Capuche, an association which started in January 2025, distributes tents and runs a free clothing shop where people can choose their own clothes. It also manages a recently established community laundry system.

The goal of this crowdfunder is to raise €10,000, which would allow Calais Appeal to buy 1,000 tents, costing €10 / £9 each. Reaching this target will allow Calais Appeal to continue distributing tents for another month.

Chip in here if you can.

Featured image via Calais Appeal / La Capuche Mobilisée