Exciting trips to an alpaca farm, the panto and a guiding event await girls who belong to the 1st Kingsbury Rainbows, all paid for by shoppers generously donating their dividends.
Customers at Kingsbury Co-op raised £615 after giving up the loyalty rewards they earn on their purchases to send the children, aged five to seven, on the outings.
• Celebration time: Emma Horsham (centre), manager of Kingsbury Co-op, presents the Community Dividend Fund cheque to the 1st Kingsbury Rainbows and their leaders, Carole Young (left) and Andree Lyon.
The first one takes place at Kingsbury Community Theatre this month (June 2019) when the Rainbows join Brownies, Guides and Rangers from the district in a day of activities. Then, in July, they will head for the Lucky Tails Alpaca Farm in Hurley, where they will be able to walk one of the woolly creatures, as well as meet some of the other resident animals including pygmy goats. Finally, the year will be rounded off with a visit to a pantomime show in Lichfield.
Emma Horsham, manager of the Tamworth Co-op run convenience store in Kingsbury, said the grant came from its Community Dividend Fund initiative which helps local good causes.
Carole Young, who jointly leads the 1stKingsbury Rainbows with Andree Lyon, said: “As a small group, with a maximum intake of 15, it’s hard to get funds and our subs barely cover the rent, so we’re really grateful for this donation.”
The youngsters meet once a week during term-time at Kingsbury Methodist Church Hall, where they work towards gaining skills and interest badges.
The Community Dividend Fund has distributed more than £100,000 to clubs, charities and schools in the area since it was established ten years ago.