Important to remember others

At this time of year it’s so easy to get sucked into Christmas tunnel vision, thinking only about what is going on in our own little bubble, from parties and presents to getting the tree up and thinking about how the Christmas holidays will be spent.

It’s easy to forget about others less fortunate who could do with our help. Thankfully, there are people in our city who work hard to raise money for charitable causes and keep up the momentum even at this busy time of year.

Last week the lovely Lisa Seferi put on a fantastic evening at The Palm, just off Wessington Way, to help raise money for the Denise Foundation, which works to improve education, health and sustainability for children in Uganda.

At the event we heard how much fantastic work the charity has already done in helping to create educational space and how the next fundraising push is to facilitate toilet and kitchen facilities, amongst other things, that will improve the lives of many children.

The night encouraged women to bring along dresses they no longer wear (at eight months pregnant I had plenty of those) and donate them to be sold on at the event.

There was a fashion show, the wonderful Anth Stringer was singing and there was a raffle with brilliant prizes. Local businesses got involved too, selling their products and donating a percentage of their sales on the night to the charity.

The setting for the event was brilliant, and it’s clear to see that the owners of The Palm have worked hard to create a unique and impressive venue. It’s definitely worth a visit and of course it’s important to support new businesses in the city.

The evening certainly put the fun in fundraising, and was a credit to all those involved. It was a well organised and attended event, and really goes to show how generous and supportive the us Mackems can be.

At this time of year especially, organising an event can be very stressful and making the time to attend can be harder than usual, but it just goes to show that it is more than achievable to think of, and help others who need it.

In amongst all the hustle and bustle of the festive period it’s important that we don’t forget about others who need our help, whether it be our next door neighbour or someone further a field, like the children the Denise Foundation helps in Uganda. So whether it’s buying a raffle ticket, going to an event, buying an extra gift and donating to a toy appeal or just inviting a neighbour round for a cuppa, let’s all do our bit to help others.

“It’s important we don’t forget others who need our help” KATIE BULMER-COOKE