At our September meeting we had an interesting illustrated talk by David Sanderson about Tools With a Mission, at which he was assisted by Maurice, another volunteer. This commendable charity collects donated tools, refurbishes them when necessary, sorts them into various itemised kits, then sends them to established organisations, mainly in Africa, for assisting them in livelihood creation. There is a long list of tools which can be accepted and they are then sorted into builders, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, shoemakers and other kits for onward transmission. They also take sewing and knitting machines and haberdashery, the benefits of which were illustrated by an example of a lady in Uganda who has the care of nine children and eight grandchildren and was provided with a sewing machine. After some training, she is able to make and sell clothes, enabling her to feed her family and send them to school. Other examples of the use of the tools were given, including building a home, so the effects of the donations are wide-ranging. An average of two containers a month are shipped, with tools sufficient for about 40 recipients.
Our next meeting is on 2nd October, when we are holding our annual fundraising event, which this year is for our own Newbold Church Building Project. Steve Williams is making a welcome return to show us more of his images of nature. There will be a tombola and light refreshments and visitors will be welcome for what should be an enjoyable evening.
TrIsh Law , Committee Member Tel: 450407