Christmas Fair Fund going strong

When farmer’s wife Shirley Jex rallied together a group of young, dedicated women in 1952, she wanted to address an urgent need.

Today, albeit through different women, that group continues to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most.

The Christmas Fair Fund is now made up of 52 volunteers who give freely of their time without financial reward.

“Sixty-two years ago those ladies got together and used their talents to hold a country fair at Christmas. They raised £500, which was a tidy sum at that time. The fair is still our biggest fundraiser,” said current chairlady Michelle Blake.

The fund supports 18 projects, aiming to help not just groups but individuals.

“Our goal is to find people who are not getting any support and pour our resources there. Every cent we raise goes right back into our projects,” she said.

Through the CFF bursary fund, in excess of 120 children have been put through tertiary education, producing veterinarians, teachers and social workers.

The recipient list of the fund has grown to include St Vincent de Paul, St Lukes home for the Mentally and Physically Handicapped, the North Coast Courier Orphan Fund, Crawford Trust Assist-a-Child Programme and the Westbrook Retirement Village.

“The last two years have seen a number of new girls join us, which is just a testament to the longevity of the fund. The passion of the younger ladies is so refreshing. We want to take CFF to the next level. Now, it is about opening up the fund and we would love it if more people could join us. We are a sisterhood who have fun helping our community.”

Blake mentioned a few exciting upcoming projects, including housekeeping learnerships and a partnership with a car dealership to provide sales training.

“We are always extremely grateful to our community which supports us. Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”

You can find out more about the fund on their Facebook page: The Christmas Fair Fund or call Mariella Kayat 083 268 3884.