Loughborough community comes together for Christian Aid Week 2026 fundraising events

Residents in Loughborough are being invited to take part in a series of community fundraising events, organised by the Loughborough Christian Aid Group as part of Christian Aid Week 2026.

From afternoon tea and coffee mornings to quiz nights and even a charity car wash, organisers have planned a variety of activities to ensure there is something for everyone while raising vital funds for those living in poverty.


Churches from across the town have joined forces to host the events, highlighting a strong sense of community spirit behind this year’s appeal.

Jean Bates, representative at Loughborough Baptist Church and local volunteer coordinator, said the annual campaign is an opportunity for people to come together and make a real difference.

She said: “Every year during this appeal, people across Britain and Ireland have seven days to make a difference and raise funds for Christian Aid Week.”

The fundraising activities will begin on Saturday, May 9, with a special afternoon tea at Trinity Methodist Church. Organised by Andy and Rachel Thorpe, the event promises a high quality experience inspired by traditional tea rooms, complete with live music and waiter service.

Guests are asked for a minimum donation of £10 per person, with all proceeds going towards helping communities grow their own food in areas affected by urban poverty.

A week later, on Saturday, May 16, Loughborough Baptist Church on Baxter Gate will host a coffee morning from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Visitors can browse stalls selling homemade goods, books, plants and bric a brac. A charity car wash will also be taking place in the church car park, with donations welcomed.

Later the same day, Thorpe Acre Church will host its annual quiz night, which will include a collection in support of Christian Aid.

Funds raised during the week will go towards supporting communities around the world to find practical and sustainable ways out of poverty.

This year’s Christian Aid Week appeal, running from May 10 to May 16, is focusing on work in Nairobi, Kenya. Many families there face daily challenges in feeding their children due to extremely low incomes, with some earning less than one dollar a day to cover essentials such as rent, water and school costs.

Through support from Christian Aid and its local partner Beacon of Hope, families are being provided with tools, seeds and specialist training to grow fresh vegetables in small urban spaces. This initiative helps create a reliable source of food and income.

Anyone wishing to attend the afternoon tea can book by emailing andythorpe01509@gmail.com

More information about Christian Aid Week and how to get involved can be found on the official Christian Aid website.

If you have a story you’d like to share, whether it’s a community event, charity project, new business, or creative showcase, we’d love to hear from you. At Leicestershire Today, we’re dedicated to giving local voices a platform and shining a spotlight on the people who make our county special.

Get in touch with us to have your story covered.

By Ed Seed

Comments