Very fortunate to work for a company like Euroclear, who has a genuine focus on ESG and our responsibility surrounding it. We have been partnering with Street Child (previously Build Africa) for ten years now, focusing on creating economic stability and equality through education. In November, a team of 10 Euroclear colleagues will be going out to Uganda to experience first-hand just how life changing our support can be, I'm very grateful to be one of the 10 making the trip. While the experience will undoubtedly be profound, I'm very motivated to make the trip as impactful as possible and am also raising funds to support Street Child. Street Child's purpose is to see all children safe, in school and learning - even, and especially, in low-resource environments and emergencies. Any donations are very appreciated.

While in Uganda this year, Euroclear is supporting two new projects:

Project A

Euroclear is supporting a project to improve hygiene facilities and menstrual hygiene for girls in Masindi, Uganda. Lack of proper facilities has been a key reason for girls dropping out of school. Through this project, we're building environmentally friendly latrine blocks and providing over 1,000 girls with sanitary hygiene packs and training, enabling them to stay in school and pursue their education confidently. With your support, we're making a tangible difference in their lives and empowering a brighter future.

Project B

Euroclear is involved in a project in Kampala, a challenging environment for refugees. The Family Business for Education program, run by refugees for refugees, empowers caregivers to establish profitable businesses, helping them afford school fees and improving access to education for their children. One caregiver has 5 children (based on Uganda's birth rate). Our aim is to reach 60 caregivers, which will in turn benefit over 300 children. Collaborating with local organization YARID, we're ensuring that families gain economic stability, allowing their children to access education. Your involvement will directly contribute to breaking the cycle of inequality and ensuring that education reaches those who need it most.

Other than donating, how else can you help?

We are also collecting materials to take out with us. Can you help with donating any of the following:

-Sports equipment: footballs, basketballs, netballs, tennis balls, bats and balls, skipping ropes, plastic cones, pumps to inflate the balls

-Books in English for young children (2-5) with pictures and large print - early learning materials

-Easy jigsaw puzzles and other games that are easy to play

-Stationery - pens, pencils, rulers, pencil sharpners, pencil cases, notebooks, colouring materials

If you have any of these materials and I can collect it from you in London please let me know before 23rd October. Thanks to those who have helped so far.