Rachel Shaw from St John's reports back on the amazing fundraising efforts by children in their church to help build a school in Zambia.
When Sophie and Izzy realised that not all children in Zambia go to school, they decided to do something about it!
Keynsham Parish is linked to the Parish of Chipata South, Eastern Zambia. During Lockdown we have been fundraising to help build and furnish a new 3-classroom primary school at St Paul’s church, Chipata. This project is being run by Hands of Compassion which is the main grant-giver.
Sophie decided to run her own online raffle: anyone who donated to our Just Giving appeal had the chance to win one of her hand-made prizes. As the donations rolled in, she roped in her brother Jacob. If donations reached £500, he would do two terrifying challenges: allow a worm to crawl over his face and eat three of his worst disgusting food items: tomatoes, brussel sprouts and mushrooms! Mum, Sarah, filmed it all as evidence, while big sister Sophie administered the test.
Izzy’s challenge was even more strenuous: 100 cartwheels a day for 7 days! Big sister Katie counted to ensure all was fair while mum, Claire, filmed. Each day’s effort had a different theme, one day was all in French, some were in fancy dress, and on day seven, Izzy’s cartwheels were one-handed!
School friends and families all chipped in to support the children, who between them added at least £2,500 to the total, knowing that their efforts could change the life chances of other children in Zambia.
We are delighted to say that by EasterDay, the target for completing the building has been reached, and now we are raising funds to help with furniture and equipment. The school is due to open later this year.
Read more about the Chipata South School Project in online back copies of ‘Contact’ Magazine. (December 2020, p 13,14. and March 2021 p 21)