Top-class fund-raising effort by primary kids

Feb 26 2009 by Shirley Bartynek, Hamilton Advertiser

Top-class fund-raising effort by primary kids

BIG-HEARTED youngsters from Hamilton's St Mary's Primary School have helped to lift an African community out of poverty.

A recent fund-raising drive brought in a massive £2050 in just four weeks, surpassing even the school's ambitious target of £1500.

This figure was set by the team at the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund (SCIAF) who were so impressed with the efforts of the Cadzow Street school that the organisation's schools officer John Sharp asked to visit St Mary's to thank the children face-to-face.

Head teacher Kathleen Stewart is immensely proud of the children's achievements.

She explained: "When we set off on this initiative we asked the children what they would like the funds to be spent on. The SCIAF campaign to raise a community out of poverty really struck a chord with them and from day one the children - from P1 to P7 - were determined that they would make it happen.

"As ever, pupils, parents and grandparents, and the school staff worked very hard and we are delighted that we not only reached, but exceeded our target."

John Sharp is happy to sing the praises of St Mary's Primary.

He said: "I'd really like to thank the pupils and staff at St Mary's for their fantastic fund-raising success.

“This money will make a real difference and help some of the poorest people in the world to lift themselves out of poverty.

“Without the support of Scottish schools, our life-changing work would not be possible."

The additional £550 raised will also be put to good use by SCIAF, paying for both the rebuilding work at a Third World school and for providing education for a refugee child.