Children's Charity Appeals For Help

SCANS - Summer Holidays for Crewe And Nantwich School Children - has been running since 1963.

The charity’s main purpose is to take groups of underprivileged children from the area away for a one-week holiday that the children would not otherwise receive.

The children enjoy a break and their full-time carers receive some much needed respite.

The children are taken to a purpose-built centre set in beautiful grounds in the English countryside, where the SCANS volunteers cram in as many activities into the week as possible.

The children are encouraged to socialise with others through constructive play and team games, and are taken on day trips to give them an enjoyable experience they will never forget.

Everyone working for the charity is an unpaid volunteer, including the committee members, fundraisers and the cooks, drivers, leaders and helpers on the actual holidays.

Fundraising officer Vanessa Knibbs said: "Unfortunately, due to the recent economic climate the charity is struggling.

"Donations of money are always welcome; however what is also desperately needed are some basic items to help SCANS continue to offer local disadvantaged children the time of their lives.

"We are looking for donations of towels, tea towels, toiletries, kids clothes including coats and pyjamas - ages 5 to 11 - single bed sheets and duvet covers, small rucksacks, first aid kits, toys and craft materials." The charity is also looking for local helpers, especially volunteers who have the D1 addition to their driving licence and who are willing to drive a 17-seater minibus on the holidays.

They are also appealing to anyone with cooking skills who would like to volunteer to be holiday cook for a week next summer.

The charity is also keen to hear from anyone who can help out supervising the children or taking part in fundraising events.

Anyone who can help should call 07935 327001 or email don.glover@yahoo.co.uk.

Collection of any of donated items can be arranged.