Marathon effort raises crucial funds

There are some amazing things going on to support our project, but I have to take my hat off to Anne-Marie and Sam who really put their bodies on (and across) the line in running all 26 miles, 385 yards of the London marathon to raise money for the Chilubula Support Group. They finished in 4 hours and 42 mins and 4 hours 10 mins respectively - a fine pair of finishing times.

Anne Marie reported hitting the infamous "wall" at about 21 miles but she soldiered on to the finish, showing true grit and determination. Apparently, it was all a bit of a blur after that and before she knew it, she was back in Devon! It was certainly worth it as between them they raised a stunning £800. So how will the money be used?

Well, Charlie is currently back out in Zambia and has reported that the main school building is complete and being used by the children three days a week. They get fed two meals a day as well on those days. We have employed two local teachers and have sent out money for the construction of three latrines and a kitchen, which is the next major job.

When those are complete, the next priority is to dig a bore hole which will provide fresh water for the community. We have raised about £2000 for that already, and Anne-Marie and Sam's money will help towards the total that we need which is about £3500.

Thanks again to Ann-Marie and Sam, and all those who supported them, for a superb effort.

What it's all about...

Here are the latest pictures of the children's centre, taken with a disposal camera so please excuse the quality! As you can see, the roof is on and windows are in.


Most important of all the children are in! They are delighted with the new building and send their thanks to everyone for your continued support.

Fundraiser dinner boosts support effort

Thanks to all those (more than a 100 of you) that joined us at "The Hungry Inn" (a chinese restaurant in Croydon) last Thursday for a dinner in support of the Chilubula Children's Centre. An open and closed auction was held which generated yet more valuable income for the project. Our thanks goes out to all those who attended and bid so generously and the kind donations that enabled the auction to take place. We raised in the region of £2,000. Not bad for one night's work! Watch this space because we are planning a black tie dinner next!