Joseph and Rachel Givens work in service to refugees in Calais, France. The NGOs with which they serve provide sanctuary and hospitality to vulnerable refugees, particularly women and families with children.
Rachel works at Secours Catholique, a nonprofit accompanying women caught in the European refugee crisis. She provides daytime programming and support services to migrants primarily from the Middle East and Africa seeking refuge. Political technicalities regularly push these populations to the United Kingdom.
Joseph coordinates regional connections with European Mennonites and the Christ at the Borders Just Peace Pilgrimage. In the latter program they guide participants in engaging with the refugee community, preparing memorials for those lost crossing the English Channel, and advocating for humane migration pathways. Joseph is also a student at Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary and provides transportation support across a spectrum of NGOs in Calais.
Their efforts focus on creating a prayerful, supportive community that counters the challenges faced by refugees in Calais, emphasizing dignity, mutual support, and spiritual growth.
Learn more about the Givens family and their assignment:
