KIND-HEARTED Knutsford women have teamed up to help children left without parents following the war in Afghanistan.
The ladies have raised funds to support an orphanage in Kabul called The Academy, run by the Zamir Foundation, a charity supporting families in Afghanistan.
Fundraiser Anne Baker said: “Many children in Afghanistan became orphaned following the Taliban takeover in 2021.
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“This was because either one or more of their parents were killed or their families could no longer provide for them.
“As the economic crisis continues, some have resorted to selling their children.”
A coffee morning is being held at Lost & Found on Princess Street on Friday, May 24, from 10am to 12 noon to raise more funds.
Anne said: “As crises deepen throughout the world, Afghanistan has to some extent been forgotten and therefore is not receiving the level of donations they have experienced in the past.
“This is completely understandable yet their plight continues so your support is evermore needed.
“Knutsford residents are known for their generosity and it is hoped that we can raise lots of money to continue the excellent work of the Zamir Foundation who are hoping to open a second orphanage if and when funds allow.”
The orphanage looks after 70 children and provides three meals a day, health checks and education.
The children have mastered reading and writing in their local languages and are also learning English.
The youngsters have developed strong mathematical skills and vastly improved their social skills and confidence.
However, girls are only allowed to be educated until the age of 12.
Anne added: “The Zamir Foundation is currently in the process of setting up remote learning so that girls can continue their learning beyond 12.
“Many of the children are now expressing their hopes and dreams.
“Many want to become teachers, doctors and not surprisingly, footballers.
“Please come along and support our wonderful initiative and enjoy tea, coffee and delicious cake.
“To make it fun, there will be competitions, cakes to buy and takeaway.
“A big thank you to the Lost & Found for generously hosting us.”
The ladies are appealing for cake donations.
Any bakers willing to help can call Anne Baker on 07803 936682 or Suzanne Bardon on 07771 666895.
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