Manor Open Gardens supporting CRESS

Knighton Manor at Broad Chalke will open its gardens on 15 and 16 June in the afternoon to raise funds sepcifically for CRESS' 10- year anniversary trip to Uganda and as well as enjoying teas in the historic garden the manor will also play host to a selection of stalls which have been chosen to support small local businesses, predominantly run by women.

Izzie Ballantine Dykes, who is doing work with the charity said:

"This is important to CRESS, as we aim to champion, empower and equip South Sudanese women with the skills and knowledge to provide for their families and wider community."

The 10 year anniversary trip is designed to allow charity members and supporters to check in with all ongoing CRESS projects.

CRESS began working in South Sudan in 2011, partnering with the Anglican Church of South Sudan to provide practical help and support to people living with the consequences of decades of civil war.

In 2017, when civil war forced the people of South Sudan to flee across the border to Uganda, CRESS followed them and continued to support the community. A Primary Health Clinic has been set up, agricultural training is given to support people to grow their own crops, reusable menstrual pads, along with training on how to use them, are provided for women and girls who would otherwise have no access to sanitary menstrual products, and CRESS enables children and young people to receive an education.

Izzie said:

"The members and supporters are paying their own travel and living expenses whilst out there, but these funds will enable CRESS to hold conferences, workshops and events as well as making it possible to support the local CRESS team and check in with all ongoing projects."