How a bird box helped a Ukranian family

Brian Cattermole, as a hobby, makes bird boxes which he donates or raffles for charity.

At a recent Leigh on Sea Chapter meeting he donated two. One of the lucky winners was Colin Felton who can be seen proudly displaying it. Previously Brian had also donated one for raffle at the Southend Masonic Study Circle. The total raised for both was £280 which was rounded to £300 by a generous donation.

Prior to the raffle Mike Hill approached Brian and asked if he would consider making any money raised to be given to a Ukranian family.
Mike proceeded to explain that he was aware of a family who had fled Ukraine and were living with their relatives locally to him.

The family had left Mariupol with a bag each. The father, who had been a policeman and a merchant sailor was having an interview for work at DP Ports. To support his family. The mother had never left Mariupol, until the war, is busy learning English. Whilst the daughter, whose English is improving each day, is hoping to go to Reading University.

Brian explained the predicament and all Companions of the Chapter were very happy for the proceeds to be put to such good use.

Brian put the proceeds from both raffles and was delighted to be able to present a cheque in person to the family
The family were most grateful for the assistance given by Brian through the raffling of his bird boxes.
We wish them well in their new lives and Mike will keep us informed as to how things develop for them.