Students jump at chance toraise funds for safer water

The money raised will provide vital tools for a village without safe water. These tools will help mend and maintain taps, ensuring there is always a nearby water supply.

Student Becky O’Rourke, who has volunteered for CAFOD since October and is training to be a youth leader, said: ‘Instead of relying on donations we wanted to do some active fundraising instead as it helps get more people involved.

‘By arranging something more memorable than a small collection we also hope it will raise more awareness for CAFOD.

‘We think CAFOD’s Lent campaign is especially important this year, as it not only highlights the great importance of clean water sources in parts of the world that don’t have access to it but also shows its effect on education, development and careers. Pushing towards clean water for all those who are unable to access this very basic human right is a vital step we need to make in the world, and this campaign will help us achieve it.’

The money raised from the tournament will provide enough tools to help fix water pumps in case they break again.

This will give children around the world a better chance of being able to go to school.

A fifteen-year-old girl from Uganda nearly dropped out of school because her village’s water pump broke and she had to walk to the river for water to drink or to wash.

CAFOD partners were able to repair the water pump near her school, provided a portable sink and soap for handwashing, and trained teachers to help pupils learn good hygiene routines.

CAFOD representative in Waterlooville, Lynda Mussell, said: ‘This is a brilliant example of active fundraising and you can really do anything to raise awareness and money.’

All year groups took part in the tournament and paid a £5 entry fee for each team.

To find out more about the work of CAFOD go to cafod.org.uk.