Lasting impact of Frank’s strong faith

At the University Carol Service this year I was able to tell one of my favourite Sunderland Christmas stories.

The buildings of architect Frank Caws, born in 1846 on the Isle of Wight, are now the most loved in Sunderland and include the recently renovated Elephant Tea Rooms, Corder House, Sydenham House and the beautiful terraced Holmlands Park in Ashbrooke.

In 1871 Frank was involved with establishing the YMCA in Sunderland.

On a cold Christmas Day 1901, (so the story goes), Frank found a nineyear-old, barefoot and ragged match seller sheltering on the stairs of his office on Fawcett Street and decided to do something about it.

He solicited support from his professional friends in Sunderland and the Waifs Rescue Agency & Street Vendor’s Club was formed as a charity with premises in Lambton Street. The doors were opened on January 2 1902 and Frank was secretary until his death in 1905. The club, now renamed the Lambton Street Youth Centre,isstillgoingstrong.

When we begin to worry about the problems around us – increased child poverty and the ever growing gap between rich and poor – think on this Christmas story. Frank’s strong faith, big heart and his ability to work collaboratively with others had a lasting impact on this city.

Perhaps this Christmas time we need to wake up and see what is happening on our very doorstep and decide to do something about it.