Syrian refugees at the Hazel Hotel are 'incredible people' says Co Kildare volunteer

Crowds gathered in a Co Kildare community over the weekend in a bid to raise funds for people in Syria. The event, organised by the Focolare Centre, in Prosperous,  raised €800, which will be sent directly to Syria. Several people in the local community also gathered to have a blessing of their pets at the fair on Saturday. One of the leading organisers, Susan Gately, was inspired to assist the people of Syria, after the community of Prosperous met the new arrivals at the Hazel Hotel. She said: "It is heartbreaking to see the way they are living in Syria." This Christmas several Syrian families  will stay at the Hazel Hotel in Monasterevin, a temporary accommodation and orientation centre for them, before they are relocated to other parts of Ireland. Over a thousand refugees  are anticipated to arrive in Co Kildare  by September next. Co Kildare woman, Anna McHugh, is a volunteer, who assists Syrian refugees to settle in at the Hazel Hotel in Monasterevin. She said: "It is very uplifting to be working with them. I am just amazed at their upbeat nature, they are incredible people."                 Photo by Aishling Conway.                       Photo by Aishling Conway.