BEWDLEY Women’s Institute (WI) has raised £1,500 for Kidderminster Short Breaks (KSB) – the highest total the group has achieved over a 12-month period.
Members of the group have organised a wide range of fundraising activities, including raffles, coffee mornings, themed meals and community events.
They have brought local people together in support of children and young people with additional needs.
The funds have been used to purchase a new large basket swing for the KSB garden, providing a valuable and enjoyable outdoor activity for the children and young people who use the service.
The swing has now been installed and is already being used safely and enthusiastically.
Kidderminster Short Breaks is a Worcestershire County Council residential home which offers overnight short breaks for children and young people with learning disabilities and or challenging behaviour. The service provides a safe, supportive environment where children can spend time away from home, while giving families essential respite.
Staff and young people from KSB attended the Bewdley WI annual meeting earlier this month to share an update on how the donation had made a difference.
The cheque was formally presented to KSB manager Stuart Hart at St George’s Hall in Bewdley. One of the young people who uses the service Leon and Brenny the wellbeing dog also attended.
Leon spoke with around 40 WI members during the event, sharing pictures of the new swing and explaining how much it meant to him and others at KSB.
And he gave a heartfelt speech to thank the group.
He said: “Thanks lovely ladies for helping us get a big basket swing – it’s really nice and I have enjoyed going in it, so will the other children.
“Thank you.”
Stuart added everyone was incredibly grateful to Bewdley Women’s Institute for their hard work and generosity in raising such a fantastic amount.
“The new basket swing is already proving to be a huge hit with the children and young people who stay with us.
“It provides not just fun, but also valuable opportunities for relaxation, sensory play and social interaction.
“On behalf of everyone at KSB, thank you for making such a positive difference.”
Veronica Whatmore, Bewdley WI’s fundraising coordinator, said members had worked tirelessly over the last year, organising events including the Spring and Christmas
Fairs, a coffee morning and an Indian evening.
“We chose the Kidderminster Short Breaks as our nominated charity because we know what a vital lifeline they are for families in our local area.
“After three of us visited the unit last year, we were greatly impressed by the energy and commitment of the staff who go that extra mile to provide a safe and relaxing environment for the children and families who rely on their services.
“We were so proud to present Stuart and Leon with a cheque for £1,500.
“Our members definitely hold the unit close to their hearts so it was wonderful to hear and see that the basket swing is now installed and heartwarming to know how much fun the children are already getting from using it.”
The donation highlights the continued commitment of Bewdley WI to support local causes and improve opportunities for children and families in the community.
