Over £1,000 was raised last Wednesday night at the Mercy in Action Ladies Night in Peasedown St John. The event was full with members of the community who came along for the first viewing of this year’s winter clothing stock.
Run by manager Mary Warren, and Deputy Manager Sarah Copsey, the shop was opened two years ago and has more than 20 volunteers helping out on a weekly basis.
Mary said: “Since our opening in 2010 the community has taken Mercy in Action to its heart. Many people come into the store regularly to donate clothing, furniture and other goods. It’s proved to be a very popular way of enabling people to do their bit for those around the world that need extra help.
“Last Wednesday night was a chance for many of our supporters to come together to celebrate both the achievements of Mercy in Action in Peasedown and to see our winter clothing selection.”
During the evening, various stalls included cupcakes, handmade cards and crafts, jewellery and cosmetic packages.
Opening the event was Cllr Karen Walker, the Vice Chairman of Peasedown St John Parish Council. She said: “Mary and Sarah have worked tirelessly to provide a service to our village that not only enables people to do their bit for charity, but during times of financial hardship allows them to buy good quality clothes and goods for the home at a reduced cost.
“My own experiences as a single mother many years ago showed me the value of charity shops and the services they provide.”
Mercy in Action was launched in 1995 when Bath-based Allison and John Todd visited the Philippines and were horrified by the conditions that many of the orphaned children were living in.
Following their visit, they then came back to the UK, and started raising funds to change these children’s lives.
17 years later the charity continues to support homeless, orphaned children in the Philippines by running drop in centres where they can get food, weekly schooling and have a shower. There are currently 14 shops in the UK, with more planned to open soon.
For more details about Mercy in Action in Peasedown St John phone 01761 439244 or visit www.mercyinaction.org.uk
