Two Cedar House fundraising events have this month raised £1,931, thanks to generous Preston residents.
On Saturday 16 October, Cedar House welcomed professional make-up artist Zsanett Peter from Ribbleton. Zsanett gave makeovers, and the bakers at Inglewhite Church provided cakes.
The leftover cakes, including ginger, marmalade, chocolate and cream gateau, dozens of tray bakes, brownies and coconut biscuits, were sold to friends and neighbours the following Sunday, bringing in a further £90.
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As part of the fundraising, one volunteer shared her story on Facebook to encourage people to donate.
The volunteer said: “I was nervous to, but I had a great response from my friends.
“After being bullied at school, my counsellor helped me build back my self-esteem. I thought there was something wrong with me, that I was unlikeable, ugly, too tall and destined never to fit in. I was convinced I would end up on benefits alone.”
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The volunteer said they were raising funds for Cedar House because it is a cause close to their heart. They said that most days in Preston, they meet people struggling in one way or another.
They said: “Some are rich enough to afford private therapy, but many aren’t. I was fortunate that my parents could afford it. My counsellor helped me like life again and to come to terms with what had happened to me. Without therapy, I’m not sure any of these happy photos would even exist.
“I am privileged to live a life full of family and wonderful friends. Please help me raise money for Cedar so our volunteers can help others.”
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Organiser and trustee Charlotte Hubback said: “Covid has affected our income, and we needed to raise some money. We also wanted to give our hardworking volunteers a fun evening.”
The first prize for the quiz was a weekend at a Snowdonia holiday cottage, donated by Kit Hubback.
Valerie Barker, who has volunteered at Cedar House for over twenty years, said: “The girls night and quiz were fabulous.
“We are thrilled to have raised so much. During lockdown, the volunteers retrained so that we could continue to help people via zoom or phone. We were unable to fundraise but managed to keep going due to the dedication of all the wonderful volunteers who freely give their time and expertise. I love being part of this great team.”
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Cedar House Counselling has 55 volunteer counsellors, 22 additional volunteers and two part-time staff. In 2021, they saw hundreds of clients, some face to face and some online. The service provides low-cost counselling to local people and frequently deals with suicide threats.
Charlotte said: “It was a lot of hard work, but it was amazing how generous people are – the friend who was sorting the money texted me saying how much we had raised, and I thought there was a typo!
“Thanks to all who attended and donated. It is much appreciated. We also received a lot of support from Inglewhite Church.”
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