The Lord Mayor of Coventry, Councillor Kevin Maton, made a welcome appearance at one of the city’s oldest charities on Friday, December 16, when he expressed his appreciation for Coventry Boys and Girls Club’s ongoing work in the community. Clearly touched by the contributions of the young people in attendance, including performances of poetry, and a guided tour of the facilities available in CBGC’s headquarters on 50 Whitefriars Street, the Lord Major provided some words of thanks during a heart-warming Christmas Afternoon Tea event.
The event, which was hosted in The Coffee Hub, part of the charity’s offering in the heart of the city, was attended by people from all walks of life that have come to rely on CBGC for fun and friendship, and it’s not just young people who get involved. From the seniors badminton club right through to the staff and volunteers that keep the club running, the afternoon tea was enjoyed by those who wanted to get together and celebrate the first restriction free Christmas since Covid, while fighting loneliness in what can be a challenging time of year for many of us. Entertainment included singer Chris Pepper, along with poetry from John Bernard and Abdi Nuur.
“I think, talking about loneliness and the difficulties that young people find, and are found in other communities, is at this time of year in particular… it’s something that is very difficult to deal with,” said the Lord Mayor. “And so, if you’ve got people here who are supporting our youngsters, and other communities, to overcome those difficulties, then it’s something that we can be very proud of.”
Coventry Boys and Girls Club has been a mainstay in the city since 1935. The club has evolved over the years and includes youth clubs, summer camps, the CBGC Boxing Club, a young women’s group, and the Mac Project; a programme that seeks to provide inspiration and ambition to those that are struggling with the traditional education system, or need mentoring to reach their full potential. During his visit, the Lord Mayor engaged the club’s members with great interest, hearing first hand stories of how resources such as CBGC are essential for meeting the needs of the community. Last year, the club provided free lunches for those that were struggling to afford school dinners, and through it’s “PeriodPovCov” campaign, CBGC has also been able to distribute free sanitary products to those that require it. These are just some of the initiatives that CBGC comes up with to contribute to the wellbeing of people in the city, and if this event was anything to go by, CBGC is looking to do even more great work in 2023.
“It’s great to be able to come back here and say a big thank you on behalf of the city,” said the Lord Mayor. “For all of the work that has been done by all the people that are here now, because as we’ve just heard, you make a big difference.”
Contact Coventry Boys & Girls Club