A DEVELOPER provided funds for a half-term project at St John the Divine Church in Willenhall so children could get bird feeders and seeds for growing sunflowers, runner beans and cress.
Deeley Construction, which is celebrating its 85th anniversary, was keen to offer some support to the local community to help fund an ‘eco’ feature so Coventry City Council put it in touch with the church.
The firm donated £250 towards St John’s school holiday ‘messy church’ project.
The week included eco-biodiversity-based crafts for families.
Each school holiday the church has been running events, with an average of 450 to 500 meals being provided per session – particularly during the pandemic.
The church partners with other local organisations including the family hub, Hagard Centre, library and Betty Ennis Foundation to provide support to the Willenhall community.
Vicar, Rev Pam Howell, and Curate, Rev Charlotte Jackson, both from St John the Divine, were delighted at the offer of support, and said: “These events are only possible through the support of grant funding and donations for which the church and community are very grateful.
“There is always a very positive response from the families to what is on offer.”
Edward Hudson, Deeley Construction’s Business Development Manager, said: “St John the Divine and the City Council are clearly doing a great job not only supporting the community by providing some great half-term entertainment, but also creating interest in the environment and the food chain so we were only too happy to help.”
Councillor for Binley and Willenhall John Mutton said: “It’s fantastic to see the backing from Deeley.
“The church plays an important role in supporting people here in our local community, and it has been throughout the pandemic, and this has been greatly appreciated by the community.”
Coun David Welsh, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, added: “I’ve visited various community venues across the city during the pandemic where venues like St John the Divine Church have been playing a crucial part in providing food and other support to those people who need it most.
