I have been working as a missionary doing youth and children’s work in Cornwall, reaching out into the communities of Lostwithiel, Fowey, Par and St Blazey. Cornwall from the outside is seen as a beautiful affluent area enjoyed by the country as a favoured tourist attraction. The truth is different. It is one of the 10 poorest regions in Europe with Par/St Blazey listed as the second poorest area in Cornwall.
15,100 children (under 16) live in poverty, 22.8% of households are in fuel poverty and more than 30,000 people are on health related benefits. Last year police reported that a project to feed young people during school holidays resulted in a reduced crime rate. Young people sometimes only eat a single meal a day. Food poverty is on the increase, mental health issues are rising. (This data was supplied by Eurostat)
I am working in Fowey River Academy to develop a school farm. My role is to work with all young people interested in being part of the farm project. We are:
1. Starting a veg box scheme which will also supply free food boxes to those in need
2. Introducing chickens, ducks, cattle, goats and wallabies into the school environment
3. Building a barn and erecting a polytunnel
This will take up 90% of my time. Alongside this I will be running a small youth group taking around 10-15 young people on various trips and also running a small Bible group. I am currently writing a youth style commentary on Mark’s gospel.
I need support in 2 ways:
1. Monthly giving of any amount
2. Raising funds to purchase a car and trailer
More than ever these communities need Jesus.
We are therefore asking friends and family if you will consider supporting us. We are working in partnership with Stewardship who will be handling the collection of funds and also paying them to us.
Supporters who want to give to us should first open a Giving Account here. You will then need to email giving@stewardship.org.uk with the following information so that they can add your account to our favourite recipients list, which will allow you to set up your giving online:
Your name
Your Stewardship Recipient Account number
Confirmation that you are not a close relative of mine, or a close relative of Anna