The Rice for a Year Tea and Silent Auction, held on Saturday, September 14 in St. Luke’s Church Hall, was a great success again this year.
The tea, homemade scones, and desserts were delicious and were enjoyed by the approximately 100 people attending.
To add to the ambiance of the afternoon, a harper played lovely background music.
During the afternoon, Iris Paruch told about her experience with ABCs and Rice in Cambodia and read parts of a letter from Tammy Durand Pomroy, the founder of ABCs and Rice. In the letter, written prior to the tea, Tammy says, "I thought I’d take these few quiet moments to extend a quick thank you to you, the members of St. Luke’s parish, and your many supporters in Victoria. I know your annual tea is coming up and I thought it would be nice to have a recap of what’s happened this year. It is the continued support of communities around the globe that has made it all possible. Tammy goes on to detail all the changes which have happened at ABCs and Rice this year.
She continues, "The work that you do, Iris, along with your community, to fundraise towards the Rice for a Year campaign has proven invaluable to our mission. Without rice, the families make more short-term choices for their children — everything from begging on the street to seeking employment in extremely poor conditions. Rice is the key to making the right choice and coming to school each day.
Each month, our rice program costs more than $600 USD, making up 20% of our monthly school budget. Last year, The Rice for a Year project covered over 50% of the rice needed to keep the children coming to school. We are so grateful for your continued support of this initiative!"
To read Tammy's complete letter, open or download the link below.
Thank you to Ray Lett, Lyn Oldale, and Barb Prescott for providing the pictures of this year's Rice for a Year Fundraising Tea.
Watch for our annual Tea and Silent Auction again next fall.