The committee of CTGA would like to thank all those who supported the recent Quiz Night at Woodham Golf Club which raised £367.00 for local charities. The committee nominated the following charities to receive a donation: RocSolid, Women’s Refuge, Great Aycliffe Cancer Support Group and Shine Community Choir.
On Tuesday 23rd October representatives from each charity were invited to St. Mary’s Church where Fr. Tony Cornforth (Vice Chair of CTGA) and the committee presented cheques for £150.00 to each of the following: Brian McEnaney of RocSolid, Julie of Women’s Refuge, Alison White of Great Aycliffe Cancer Support Group and £50.00 to Helen McCormack of Shine Community Choir.
RocSolid is based in Hope House in Burnhope, Newton Aycliffe. It consists of seven self-contained, fully furnished flats used primarily for young people who need more intensive support. They include pregnant teenagers, young families and young people with other vulnerabilities such as learning difficulties. Many have been in care at some point in their lives. It is staffed 24/7.
Family Help Darlington CIO (Women’s Refuge) was founded in 1976. They are a small independent charity that has been providing refuge accommodation and support for survivors of domestic abuse for 41 years. They provide a holistic package of support for women and women with children as well as a confidential helpline for any person affected by domestic abuse.
Great Aycliffe Cancer Support Group – Are a friendly social group, who welcome anyone who has been affected by cancer. Regular meetings are held on the first Thursday of every month 6pm to 7.30pm at the Youth Centre. They offer information on issues affecting cancer patients, confidential and emotional support in a safe and friendly environment and regular social activities.
Shine Community Choir – Shine Choir started 9 years ago by Helen McCormack, a parishioner of St. Clare’s and Shine Team Leader. The choir started with 11 children and they now have 51 children (girls/boys) aged from 5-14 years of age. They are currently rehearsing for their Nativity Musical called ‘The Inspectors’ to be staged in December. Shine are a ‘free to attend’ group and a registered charity. Anyone interested in joining SHINE can visit their Facebook page where videos of the choir singing can be viewed.