Press release – 16 August
An open garden event has raised hundreds of pounds for people around the world left without shelter after disaster.
A member of the community of Almeley in Herefordshire, Vanessa Faulkner, invited people to her home during ‘National Refugee Week’ to raise funds and awareness for the international disaster relief charity, ShelterBox.
Vanessa says: “Three years ago we were lucky enough to move to a beautiful spot in the Herefordshire countryside. Living somewhere so lovely gave us the desire not only to share the garden with other people, but to be able to use it for a purpose, and so the idea of a sundowner for ShelterBox was born. And, having been involved in supporting refugee charities for several years, it seemed the perfect time to tie the event in with Refugee Week.
“We had many offers of help and support from local friends and neighbours, and had a band of willing volunteers to help with car parking and serving tea, cake and Pimms. We were also fortunate to have a dry day, something that can’t be taken for granted even in June.”
Around 60 people visited Vanessa’s home throughout the day. A local folk band, Almeley Steady Sessions, entertained guests as they wandered around the garden and wildflower meadow and sampled the homemade refreshments.
Vanessa continues: “It really was a great success and so lovely to see so many people exploring the gardens and chatting about ShelterBox in the sunshine.”
The Cornwall-based charity specialises in shelter aid and supports people around the world who have been affected by disaster or conflict. By providing shelter, and other household items like blankets, mosquito nets, solar lights and water filters, the charity delivers essential items when people have been left with very little. Since it was founded in 2000, the charity has supported nearly three million people across around 100 countries.
The open garden raised almost £900 from donations on the day and online from people who couldn’t make the event but still wanted to show their support.
Community fundraising assistant at ShelterBox, John Stanbury, says: “Vanessa’s event was a real triumph and a lovely way for people to spend a summer’s evening. We’re so grateful for the support of everyone who attended and donated to ShelterBox.
“Without people like Vanessa putting their heart and soul into organising fundraising events, we wouldn’t be able to continue to support people affected by disaster. Whichever way people get involved, whether organising a bake sale, tackling a solo challenge or talking about ShelterBox with friends or family, every little bit of support makes a difference.”
ShelterBox is responding in the Caribbean after Hurricane Beryl left a trail of devastation across island nations. Alongside Rotary, ShelterBox is supporting people in Grenada with tents and items like mosquito nets, solar lights and cooking sets.
As well as the Caribbean, the charity is supporting people affected by the conflict in Gaza. ShelterBox tents, and other essentials like water carriers, blankets and kitchen sets are being distributed by local partners to people who have been forced to flee their homes.
People wanting to find out more about ShelterBox can visit: ShelterBox.org.
ENDS
For more information contact the press office at ShelterBox via [email protected].
Notes to Editors
- Images and captions included. Image of Hurricane Beryl damage must be credited to Sonya Alleyne.
- Interviews available with Vanessa Faulkner
