Purton charity supporters put the fun into fundraising

By Amanda Wilkins - 28 April 2026

CharityVolunteeringCommunity
  • Mary Hodges and Libbie Sheppard Purton CAG

    Mary Hodges and Libbie Sheppard Purton CAG

From cakes and bacon butties, to bargains and a musical treat, Christian Aid supporters from Purton have organised a week of events and activities as part of Christian Aid Week 2026. 

This year’s appeal, which runs from May 10-16, is focusing on work in Nairobi, Kenya, where intense poverty means families have a daily struggle to feed their children. With secure jobs hard to find, and most people earning less than a dollar a day to cover school costs, rent and water, some days there isn’t enough for a meal.

But with tools, seeds and specialist training from Christian Aid’s partner, Beacon of Hope, families are learning how to make the most of a small space in the city to grow a steady supply of fresh vegetables to cook or sell. 

Organiser Libbie Sheppard said: “Every year, during this appeal, people across Britain and Ireland have seven days to make a difference and raise funds for Christian Aid Week.

“We always enjoy this appeal because, while it takes a lot of organising, it brings everyone together in fellowship and solidarity to help our global neighbours.

“We have something for everyone this year, starting with two cake sales in the village, including one at Pips Café on Saturday, May 9, from 10am. Offers of cakes will be gratefully received at Pips beforehand or on the day.

“The next day, there is breakfast in the Methodist Church from 9am and our Christian Aid service at 10am. Then, from May 12-15, Pips will be hosting a bric-a-brac sale with all sorts of things on offer. Home-grown plants will be on sale throughout the week and almost every house in the village will receive a little red Christian Aid envelope, delivered by our amazing team of volunteers.

“On Saturday, May 16, the Faith Alive Vocal Ensemble presents its Just Believe Concert, from 5pm at St Mary’s Church, Purton. The concert explores the power of faith over adversity and includes uplifting and spiritual music ranging from Renaissance to Pop. Admission is free although donations are welcome. We’re really looking forward to this and hope to see lots of people joining us.

“We’re rounding things off at the end of the month - on Monday, May 25 - with a Bank Holiday Breakfast at Pips Café, from 9am.”

Money raised will help Christian Aid and its partners to support communities to find practical and sustainable ways out of poverty.  

To find out more about projects like this and how you can get involved please visit Christian Aid Week 2026 | Christian Aid.

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