Every year on September 5th, people around the world come together to celebrate the International Day of Charity. This significant day serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back to our communities and supporting those in need. Charity not only has a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities but also enables us to create a more compassionate and inclusive society. In this blog, we will explore the significance of charity and highlight the incredible work of some local charities that we as Craft Coop have supported over the last year including Target Ovarian Cancer, DASH (Domestic Abuse Stops Here), Wycombe Women's Aid, Heart and by providing workshops for Disability Initiative and local groups.
Charity plays a vital role in addressing social issues and improving the lives of those affected by various challenges. It provides a platform for individuals to make a difference, no matter how big or small and contribute to causes they deeply care about. Through acts of generosity and selflessness, we can create a positive ripple effect that uplifts individuals, families and entire communities. Charity enables us to channel our resources, skills, time and efforts towards making a lasting impact on society.
Our main charity as Craft Coop is Target Ovarian Cancer, particularly in remembrance of Deborah Jones, one of our co-founders who passed away from this cancer in 2022. This organiation is dedicated to raising awareness, providing support and funding vital research to improve early detection and treatment options for ovarian cancer. By supporting Target Ovarian Cancer, we can contribute to saving lives and offering hope to those affected by this devastating disease. https://targetovariancancer.org.uk/
In addition to an overall charity that all of the shops support, each shop individually chooses a charity that is local and important to their supporters.For very many years for example, our Maidenhead shop has supported the Brett Foundation by means of providing a 'giving tree', a charitable initiative where individuals or organisations can participate by providing gifts or items to those in need. We've set the tree up in our Maidenhead shop decorated with tags representing specific gift requests. Each tag contains information about a person in need and their desired gift. Every year, even during last winter's cost of living crisis, we have been amazed by the generosity of those who come into the shop to collect tags and return with their chosen, wrapped gift. The team from the Brett Foundation then collect and distribute to the intended recipients, ensuring that those who may be experiencing financial hardship or other challenges receive the support and joy of receiving a gift. https://www.brettfoundation.charity/
The 'giving tree' concept brings together the generosity of donors and the needs of individuals or families, fostering a sense of community and compassion during special occasions like holidays or times of increased need. In 2022 alone we raised over 1000 gifts and £1000 for families in need in Maidenhead, Windsor and High Wycombe.
Another commendable local charity is DASH (Domestic Abuse Stops Here), which the Windsor public chose as their local charity of choice for 2023.DASH focuses on providing support and services to individuals and families affected by domestic abuse. Their tireless efforts help survivors rebuild their lives, offering a safe haven, counselling, legal advice and practical assistance. By supporting DASH, we can contribute to breaking the cycle of abuse and promoting a society free from violence.This September, the Windsor team will be hosting a demo weekend with all proceeds going to DASH. https://thedashcharity.org.uk/
Our High Wycombe team in the Eden shopping centre has nominated Wycombe Women's Aid as their main charity of choice.Wycombe Wome's Aid is a small, local organisation that supports women and children who have experienced domestic violence. They provide shelter, counselling and support services to help survivors regain their independence and rebuild their lives. By supporting Wycombe Women's Aid, we can empower survivors and create a society where everyone feels safe and protected. https://www.wycombewomensaid.org.uk/
In Camberley, our team supports a number of much smaller charitable initiatives, for example, Harry & Ed’s Aspiration Raising Trust (HEART) which aims to provide children and young people with access to opportunities in life that they would not otherwise have. https://heartcharity.co.uk/ In addition, the team takes party in community outreach workshops with Disability Initiative, which are proving instrumental in promoting inclusivity and empowering individuals with disabilities. These workshops provide opportunities for personal growth, skill development and social interaction, enabling participants to lead fulfilling lives through arts and crafts. By supporting Disability Initiative, we can foster a society that values and embraces the abilities and potential of all individuals.https://www.disabilityinitiative.org.uk/
Similarly, in our latest shop Bracknell, rather than pure fundraising, we offer free drop-in community craft sessions (or 'communicrafts' as we like to call them) twice a week for adults and children.Adults are encouraged to drop in with their own craft or can take part in a wider community project, whereas children learn a new skill each session.The idea of the community project has worked very well once again in our Maidenhead shop, where various groups and individuals have come together to celebrate the local town's charms by working on a community mural. Other projects have included yarnbombing and the group is currently working on a project for the local Foodshare organisation - bringing joy and raising a smile for many.
On this International Day of Charity, let us reflect on the power of giving and the immense impact it can have on individuals and communities. Whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or raising awareness, every act of charity matters. By supporting local charities such as Target Ovarian Cancer and all of the local choices, we can collectively create positive change and build a more compassionate and inclusive world. Let us embrace the spirit of charity and make a difference in the lives of those who need it the most.