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Extraordinary spirit
ON Wednesday, March 22 more than 50 of the Costa del Sol’s hardest working charity workers came together for an extraordinary display of community spirit.
With representatives from 15 charities, the Charities United Event at Club La Naranja, Calahonda, brought local organisations and politicians together to support the British Benevolent Fund as it shines a light on the amazing work it does to help Brits in need.
Founded more than 100 years ago to help Britons in Spain when they are at their lowest ebb, the BBF makes oneoff payments to Britons in Spain in dire need of financial help. While not every case is eligible, these payments can help in some life’s darkest moments, including with funeral payments or repatriation costs.
Members of the La Cala Lions, Soroptomists, Collective Calling, Age Concern, and many other charities, as well as councillor Bill Anderson and Vice Consul at the British Consulate Miriam Velez Martin were all on hand for what proved to be the biggest of the BBF’s launch yet on the Costa del Sol.
Sponsored by the Euro Weekly News, the event saw attendees nibble on EWN cupcakes while discussing important local topics.
As well as showing their support, charity representatives also met to discuss how they could work together to make sure no local vulnerable people ever fall through the cracks. As one of the only organisations to offer direct funding when all else has failed, it is vital that the BBF works with other charities to find out where the need is greatest.
The charity’s event’s organiser, Jenny Kaka, said: “We all come to Spain for a great life, but some people’s dreams end in nightmares.
“Sometimes people ask how those in need have got themselves into these sit uations. But we know that sometimes people just need a last resort, and we are a charity of last resort.”
Among those speaking at the event about the importance of community was Euro Weekly News founder Michel Euesden, who said: “We’re about a community of people. Many of us have fabulous support, whether friends, family or others. But not everyone does and not everyone has the language or money to change that.
“This is where the British Benevolent Fund come in. They offer straight forward help when people really need it and we’re proud to be able to give a platform to it.”
For more information on the British Benevolent Fund, or to donate, visit www.britishbenevolentfund.org
