St Margaret Ward show concern for the poor

In the autumn term, at St Margaret Ward, we have been fundraising for a local charity, Number 11. Number 11 is a lifeline for individuals from one of the most deprived communities in the UK. Many are desperately struggling to manage a variety of complex issues from loneliness and isolation, low self-esteem and confidence to poor physical and mental health, debt and long-term unemployment. It exists to bring hope and restoration to the community.

As a school community we have been hard at work, with students planning and running a raffle with some impressive prizes, as well as our Christmas Fayre on December 17th. We had a wide variety of stalls including toys, crafts, tombola, lucky dip, pre-loved books and more. Staff and students had a great day, and parents and children from our Collegiate Primary schools also attended after school. We had also had support from a number of external stalls including sweets and candy floss, jewellery and craft goods, as well as donated mugs from Portmerion.

As well as this, we have been collecting tins for our local Stoke food bank and filling boxes of toys in partnership with the Rotary club. At the time of writing our total stands at 341 tins or 140kg (roughly the same weight as a donkey!) and we filled multiple boxes of toys and gifts for those who might otherwise go without.

We are really proud of our school community coming together to raise funds, give gifts, food, and support our local community. The funds raised helped to support struggling people over the Christmas season showcasing our commitment to showing Concern for the Poor, one of our Lasallian values.