10 year old Erin Malpas-Cryer has just spent a week-end raising funds for the Tressell Trust. Walking on Saturday from Hartley to Killick’s Windmill in Meopham, and on Sunday from the Inn on the Lake to Istead Rise via Gravesend, Erin raised an amazing £1,085, which has already increased to £1,300 thanks to later donations.
Walking with mum, Jessica, both dressed in bright pink jumpers with lots of sparkle and colourful face paint – all designed by Erin – they couldn’t fail to be spotted by many passers-by who wanted to know more about their mission, and offer donations to the fund.
Erin, who attends Gads Hill School in Higham, certainly has an unusually mature social conscience for a 10 year old. This is not her first venture into fund raising. The weeks prior to Christmas see her saving her pocket money ready to give in some way or other to various charities. Last Christmas she used her savings to buy gifts for the residents and staff at the Chestnuts Care Home in Meopham. And with some of her friends they then sang carols outside the home. At this really difficult period during the pandemic, particularly over the festive season, this gesture provided much joy to all the residents and staff.
Cllr for Meopham North, Gary Harding, walked along with Erin and Jessica for some of the way. He is extremely impressed with Erin’s profoundly charitable consideration for those in need at such a young age. “Erin’s care and concern for the most vulnerable people in our society is a great inspiration for everyone”, he says.
The Tressell Trust works to stop hunger and poverty through a network of food banks providing emergency support to people in crisis. Thanks to the money Erin has raised, this will be used by Morrisons Supermarket who will issue £50 vouchers to those referred to them.
Jessica and Erin’s dad, Richard, are two very proud parents. “Erin has a huge heart”, they say. “She simply wants to make people smile. We are immensely proud of her determination and resourcefulness, and for continuing to be the kind and caring girl she has always been”.
Statistics show that there are now approximately 11.7 million people in the UK living in relative poverty, and 9.2 million living in absolute poverty. With approximately 280,000 homeless, these statistics show just how incredibly precious and worthwhile are Erin’s amazing efforts.
If you would like to donate you can do so here.
