The children of the Junior Church at Christ Church in Bath have raised £690 to support vulnerable and disadvantaged young people in the city.
In June, the children chose to support young people’s drug and alcohol service Project 28, after being inspired by its work in their local community.
Project 28, part of local charity Developing Health & Independence (DHI), provides advice, guidance and one-to-one sessions for young people who are having problems with drugs and/or alcohol.
The service is free and confidential, and aims to provide a flexible and non-judgemental space for young people to be open about the problems they are facing.
The children had planned to do car washes and cake sales but had to change their fundraising plans due to lockdown.
Instead, they hosted virtual events on Zoom, organising a fun quiz and displaying their skills at a concert, entertaining family and friends.
Emma Elliott, Group leader of the Junior Church, Christ Church said: ‘‘The children and young people were pleased to be involved in the church’s charitable giving this year and were asked to choose the Charity of the Month for June.
“Some of our young people had learned of Project 28 at school, through the PSHE education resources that DHI provide to schools.
“They wanted to support a charity that was operating locally and working with young people. Project 28 was a perfect fit.
“They are delighted with the total they’ve raised, and it is thanks to the generosity of the Christ Church community. We will continue to follow the work of the charity with interest.’’
Liz Bryan, Project 28 Manager, said: “Thank you so much for thinking of Project 28 and raising money for our charity.
“We have been working with families during Covid 19 to help and support them with children that are suffering from anxiety, alongside not seeing friends or attending school.
“We have been going on bike rides, walks and doing outside gym work with them to enable them to get some fresh air.
“This also gives them the opportunity to change their routine offering more healthier options, and for us to talk to them about any concerns.”