During the Summer of 2020 a team of volunteers and I ran a summer project called the Fabulous Fruits Club (FFC). The vision was to develop a sense of community and belonging both for the children and volunteers who came. I felt very stirred up by God over lockdown regarding children not eating good cooked meals during the summer holidays. I also felt running the club was something I could do to serve the community during the pandemic.
The project was designed to support children who had not been able to attend school or socialise due to COVID restrictions. And was set up to give the children a fun place they could feel part of, make new friends and find out a bit more about Jesus.
The club also provided a hot cooked meal, and for some, respite from a sibling with additional needs. Valence Primary School invited children to join along with children whose parents come to our community hub and corner coffee shop.
This April an email was sent to me that mentioned holiday clubs and funding. I spoke to the FFC team members and proposed a week this summer for us to run the club again.
I phoned all the parents and most of the children who came last year were keen to return. A few extra children were added, while some (technically too old) still wanted to come, so we welcomed them in.
The club had a winning formula: great food, keen young people who engaged the children, crafts, drama, games and new friends!
During the week the children and young people developed a culture of mutual respect, positive behaviour and fun.
We would like the Fabulous Fruits Club to be an annual event and we are very grateful for the support of the Lifeline Church Family, especially the accomplished cook and young people who served as group leaders.
