Charity prepares to spread happiness - The Leamington Observer

Charity prepares to spread happiness

Leamington Editorial 30th Nov, 2018   0

A CHARITY is hoping to spread a little kindness in memory of a Warwick youngster.

Evelyn’s Gift was set up in memory of Evelyn Smith, who died at seven-years-old from Bacterial Traceitis – an infection of the windpipe.

Every year on her birthday, December 1, the charity encourages people to carry out little acts of kindness for ‘Be Happy Day’.

The day was so-called because of a drawing Evelyn did for her mum reminding her not to worry about the little things. It was of a smiling face with the words ‘Be Happy’.




And some of the kindness events taking place across the district this Saturday include the chance for youngsters to meet Father Christmas at a Festive Fair organised by Warwick mayor Richard Eddy. There will also be gifts and refreshments on offer at the free event which will be held in the ballroom of the Court House in Warwick between 11am and 4pm.

Mr Eddy said: “By carrying out little acts of kindness, Evelyn’s Gift has made a big difference to Warwick’s residents and its communities and I am very proud to champion the cause as one of my mayor’s charities.


“Happiness is the greatest gift of all and we hope to engage the town in celebrating Be Happy Day to make it possible for Evelyn’s Gift to fund future acts of kindness.”

And Evelyn’s Gift will be holding a Christmas party for those supported by the Friendship Project, a charity which matches children in need with volunteers. Youngsters will even receive a free toy donated by the Disney Store through charity In Kind Direct.

Other kindness events being carried out by the charity include supplying bags filled with toiletries, socks and blankets for rough sleepers.

Children at Coten End School will be donating tins of food which will then be put into packs for young people leaving foster care at age 16.

Be Happy Day is even making its way to Stratford with Leamington band Sambassadors of Groove set to busk at Waterside between 1pm and 3pm. Money collected will be donated to the charity.

And Evelyn’s mum Helen will be remembering her daughter by lighting memorial candles at St Mary’s Church before heading to some of the events.

She said: “Without the support of our local community, we would not be able to carry out our work. Our daughter’s life has inspired many people to help us to bring some kindness to those in need.”

Visit evelynsgift.co.uk to find out more about the charity.

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