We have recently returned from a holiday to see family in Bangalore, India. My sister in law volunteers at a local "slum school", teaching primary school age children how to speak, read and write in English. It is hoped that this education will improve the childrens' prospects and allow them to get a job which will lift them out of the extreme poverty that they currently live in. The vast majority of the children who attend the school, live in the slums or on the streets.

It costs about £2.80 for a child to attend school for a month (less than the cost of a coffee in Costa!). Not only do the children get an education but they also get a nutritious meal each day they attend school, something which they are not assured of at home.

The volunteers also run holiday camps which are very popular with the children as it gets them off the streets and gives them an opportunity to have some fun.

Further information can be seen on the school's website www.stmaryschoolgvti.org. The school makes a real difference to the children who attend, but relies heavily on donations. Money donated directly to the school goes towards paying the employed staff, however the school relies on the volunteers to raise money for books, classroom supplies, uniform and food. The children really enjoy their time in school and are very proud to wear their uniform, but there is not enough of it to go round.

It is easy to forget how lucky our own children are. Please help me raise some money to help children who are less fortunate.

£2.80 allows a child to attend school for a month
£14.00 allows a child to attend school for half a year
£28.00 allows a child to attend school for the year