Chiquitta Bruce, Milton – Sponsored by Milton Community Partnership

Bob is undertaking a fundraising effort by walking both ways on Southend Pier to raise money for Asthma and Lung UK, Mind, and the British Heart Foundation. These charities hold a special significance to Bob, as he has been dealing with mental health issues resulting from PTSD, as well as chronic asthma and heart disease for over 30 years. Bob has committed to walking the Pier over a period of 15 weeks and has already completed more than half of his goal. Regardless of the weather, he will be at the walking entrance of the Pier every Wednesday at 12 pm. Bob warmly invites everyone to join him in supporting this cause by participating in a Pier walk and listening to his experience of finding support from groups and organisations that have helped him through challenging times.

Get in touch with Chiquitta:
Mon-Fri
07534 312867
cbruce@savs-southend.co.uk

Kayleigh Wilkins, Victoria – Sponsored by St Vincent’s Southend

I had the pleasure of attending an event organized by South Essex Homes at Storehouse today, where local residents living around the area were invited to participate in the upcycling of the planters outside Storehouse. The event was a collaborative effort with Trustlinks, The Greening Southend Project, and Get The Kids Out, who brought plant pots, seeds, and soil for the children to plant their own sunflowers to take home and care for, and later plant in the planters.

One of the highlights of the event was an activity for the children to design pictures that would be transferred onto the planters for the next event in May. It was heartwarming to see so many families in attendance, with children eagerly participating in both activities.

Trustlinks, in particular, played a significant role in making the event a success. Their contribution of plant pots, seeds, and soil not only provided an opportunity for children to learn about gardening and caring for plants but also encouraged them to take ownership of the planters in their community. The activity of designing pictures to be transferred onto the planters added a creative element and allowed the children to express their artistic talents while contributing to the beautification of the area.

The sense of community spirit was palpable as residents came together to improve the appearance of the planters with the help of the children living in the area. It was a heartening sight to witness how a simple event like this could bring people together, fostering a sense of pride and ownership in their neighborhood.

As I left the event, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for being a part of such a positive and uplifting experience. It was a reminder of how small initiatives can have a significant impact on building a strong and cohesive community. Kudos to South Essex Homes, Trustlinks, The Greening Southend Project, and Get The Kids Out for organizing this wonderful event and promoting community engagement and environmental sustainability. I’m looking forward to seeing the sunflowers bloom and the beautiful artwork on the planters during my next visit to Storehouse.

Get in touch with Kayleigh:
Mon-Thurs
07534 876274
kwilkins@savs-southend.co.uk

Rob Carvosso, Shoebury – Sponsored by Shoebury Residents Association

In the earlier part of the year, the workshop team at West Road Shoebury applied for funding from the Small Sparks Fund to create a potting/workbench for the polytunnel at Norton Place. The purpose of this potting bench was to provide year-round support to the Garden group at Norton Place, regardless of the weather conditions.

Jack took measurements of the polytunnel and consulted with the Garden group to ensure the height and size of the workbench would meet their needs. Once this was done, the team measured and built the workbench in sections to be assembled inside the tunnel.

The Garden group, along with Jack, Chris, and Paula, came together to assemble the workbench, which turned out to be amazing and has already been put to good use.

If you have an idea that could support a group or your local community, the Small Sparks scheme might be just what you need to get started.

Small Sparks Fund

Get in touch with Rob:
Mon-Fri
07534 337503
rcarvosso@savs-southend.co.uk