Members of the Cardiff East Christian Aid might look like they’re sitting down on the job – but it’s all part of their fundraising efforts for Christian Aid Week 2026.
They have selected a bench in a nice spot in the grounds of All Saints Cyncoed, on Cyncoed Road, and are asking people to take a photo, post it on social media and make a donation.
Local organiser David Collins explained:
“Every year since 1957, people across Britain and Ireland have come together for these seven days to make a difference and raise funds.
“Each year we put in place an imaginative series of events across East Cardiff to raise awareness of the work of Christian Aid and, of course, raise funds. Schools and churches give terrific support.
“We also enjoy good partnership arrangements with local commercial outlets. That is particularly appropriate as we know how much value Christian Aid places on partnership working on the global stage.
“This year we decided to reach out to the ‘Selfie Generation’ because who doesn’t love a selfie? People can come along to the church, take a photo and make a donation and the idea really seems to have caught the imagination of our community.”
The idea has also attracted the attention of Archbishop Cherry Vann who said:
“It is really heartening to see that local churches remain so committed to supporting Christian Aid week each year. The Selfie Bench is a particularly innovative way of capturing people’s imagination and widening the circle of involvement and support. I hope that their efforts pay off and that many join in with raising money to further the work of Christian Aid across the world this year.”
The Cardiff supporters have also organised a joint celebration service on Sunday, May 17 with All Saints’ Llanedeyrn and Christchurch, Pontprennau Community Church preceded by tea and coffee from 10am. All are welcome and separate children’s activities will be organised too.
Money raised will help Christian Aid and its partners to support communities to find practical and sustainable ways out of poverty.
This year’s appeal, which runs from May 10-16, is focusing on work in Nairobi, Kenya, where intense poverty means families have a daily struggle to feed their children. With secure jobs hard to find, and most people earning less than a dollar a day to cover school costs, rent and water, some days there isn’t enough for a meal.
But with tools, seeds and specialist training from Christian Aid’s partner, Beacon of Hope, families are learning how to make the most of a small space in the city to grow a steady supply of fresh vegetables to cook or sell.
To make your donation, please go to the fundraising page: Cardiff East Christian Aid Week – Christian Aid Week and to find out more about projects like this and how you can get involved please visit Christian Aid Week 2026 | Christian Aid
