We are grateful that in the UK we have excellent health, education and social care arrangements but are very aware that this is not the case in some parts of the world.

My mum and I plan to be part of a short term mission to Brazil in February 2019 to work as volunteers in the Christian charity Encontro com Deus which is based in Curitiba in South Eastern Brazil. The charity was established in 2000 by Patrick and Lara Reason (Patrick is English and his wife Lara is Brazilian) and works with families in situations of risk, especially providing shelter homes for vulnerable single mums and their children as well as out of school care projects with children who would otherwise be on the streets. The charity runs 2 care homes as well as a purpose built community centre.

The community centre roof has a leak which urgently needs repair in order to avoid further structural damage. There is a rooftop sports court which is open to the elements at present. The plan is to put a roof over the court, which would rectify the leak as well as enabling the court to be used all year round. Both care homes need a covered outdoor area so that the children can play outside protected from both sun and rain. This will also provide an area where washing can be hung out in all weathers. The cost for the above project is approximately £20,000 so this is the minimum amount we would aim to raise as a group of volunteers from St.Peter's church in Liverpool. It would be great if we could raise more so that we could cover the costs of craft and play materials to use with the children as well as babycare items that are needed for some of the families.

The opportunity to make a difference in serving ECD by giving practical support- play activities, cleaning, decorating and gardening as well as technical support in health care is an exciting yet daunting project. My mum's skills as a nurse and health visitor will provide an opportunity to teach baby massage and other practical skills to mums who may be struggling to bond with their babies because of difficult circumstances such as domestic violence or disability. I am already involved in voluntary work with First Steps group for 3-5 year olds in St Peter's church and am considering a future career in the medical world so I am hoping to further develop my skills in a different culture.

Please give what you can to support this very worthwhile mission.

Thank you!