Barnack resident appeals for donations towards Zambian charity

A charity which helps Zambian people learn practical skills is looking for donations of tools.

Eight years ago, Derrick Crump from Barnack set up the scheme to enable people to support themselves by developing skills, which will ultimately help them earn money and become more self-sufficient.

Derrick, a retired university lecturer who specialised in woodwork, said: “I had been to a number of different countries working with the local people and then I was sent to Zambia. Within a week I felt quite at home.

“I was working in a sawmill processing logs on old equipment and was there to improve the quality of what the people made and to teach them new skills.”

Derrick had the idea to set up skills centres and began sending over crates of tools, including sewing machines, knitting needles and woodworking tools, as well as teaching in towns and villages.

As the success of the programme grew, two workshops - which were installed with tools and sewing machines - were built.

The growing success of the charity means that in Zambia there are now outreach set-ups and drop in centres.

Derrick said: “All this has been possible by the help we’ve had here.

“The driving force is the people’s tenacity to work and achieve.

“We have plans to build another workshop, and have a crate full of tools and equipment ready to go.”

The Zambian women involved with the programme have made school uniforms for school children in the town of Katete and sweaters for their family.

People can also participate in woodworking sessions, where they can create pieces such as coffee tables.

Currently, Zambia is experiencing drought, which has resulted in power cuts, however, people have been able to overcome this and continue.

Derrick said: “It’s the people there who drive you on, they have nothing but a will to work and learn.”

He is appealing to people to support the charity by donating old tools, sewing machines and knitting machines so that more people can learn to use them and learn a trade.

“We have help and support from many people in Stamford and pass on our grateful thanks for this," he said.

To help this charity or to find out more call Derrick on 07902 003 544.

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