Hope and a Future Magazine Edition 9

Responding when Crisis Hits

The phenomenal impact of our Box of Hope emergency response.

Such a Time as This

Rev Canon Yemi Adedeji reflects on how TLG and the UK church responded to recent events.

The Persevering Ninja

How one coach encouraged a child's inner ninja to overcome the impact of Lockdown.

Covid-19 has had a catastrophic impact on struggling children and families. But in the midst of it all, we share stories of incredible hope.

The season of unexpectedHope

In this edition:

Responding when Crisis Hits

Reflections from Rev Canon Yemi Adedeji

The Persevering Ninja: Kai's Story

Giving Up on Giving Up: Shanice's Story

Pray with Us

The year of the

unexpected

“W

hat a year it has been so far. The year of the unexpected. Unexpected events, unexpected challenges and unexpected opportunity to empower churches to meet unprecedented need.

We have all experienced the pressures Lockdown has brought: being stuck indoors, missing family and juggling home-schooling with work to name a few. In our case that meant competing over broadband speed between myself, Rae and our three teenage boys who love their online gaming!

For families living on the poverty line and for children already struggling with their education, Lockdown has been an intense battle through emotional health challenges, hunger and isolation.

For people of colour, who have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19, the murder of George Floyd brought further hurt and pain. I’ve been deeply challenged to redouble my efforts for racial justice personally and through my leadership of TLG.

With black boys three times more likely to be excluded from school than their white counterparts, I’m convinced TLG has an urgent mandate to support these children, whilst also challenging the UK education system to change. I’m very grateful for a number of friends and fellow leaders who are speaking into these issues, including Pastor Yemi Adedeji who has written in this issue.

When the COVID-19 crisis hit, we were determined to leave no child without vital support in these uncertain times so, alongside our partner churches, we worked extremely quickly to adapt our programmes.

Our Education Centre staff combined remote lessons with checking in with the students on their doorsteps. Turn to page 12 to find out how TLG Lewisham offered a lifeline for Shanice.

Our Early Intervention coaches continued virtual coaching, many times supporting the parents’ wellbeing as well as the child’s. You can read Kai's story on page 10 as coach Emma delivered lots of exciting resources to his home.

Our rapidly growing network of 'Box of Hope' partner churches have delivered 183,839 meals and rising. These have been featured multiple times in the national media including Sarah’s story, which you can read for yourself on page 6.

None of this could have happened without the backing of our incredible supporters. I would like to particularly thank our regular givers – our valued Hope Givers - who stood by us. You are the lifeblood of this charity.

This magazine is full of both challenging and uplifting stories about what the reality of Lockdown meant for many and how the church has answered the unprecedented need in local communities across the UK.

Enjoy the read.

Tim Morfin Founder and Chief Executive

When COVID-19 hit, none of us could have imagined the turmoil that was to follow. But what was clear, even back then, was that things were going to need to change.

For children and families already struggling, the impact of Lockdown was immediate. Overnight they were swept up in a sea of worry: sudden job and food insecurity, isolation from school and friends, safeguarding issues and heightened trauma.

Despite the challenges that lay ahead, one thing was clear: there was never a more significant time for the local church to step up and bring hope to struggling families.

All of our programmes are partnerships with local churches who connect with local schools and involve face-to-face interaction. As soon as there was talk of schools closing and social distancing, it became clear that if we were going to keep reaching the children and

families we support, we needed to radically rethink the way we work –and quickly. TLG’s mission is all about enabling the church to serve, even when circumstances change so dramatically.

TLG Make Lunch clubs were unable to run in their current format – offering community, activities and a hot meal for children and families who would otherwise be hungry and isolated during the school holidays.

At a time where many more families were suddenly faced with increased food insecurity and social isolation,

Within days, we equipped our TLG Make Lunch clubs to deliver Boxes of Hope. These emergency care parcels quickly became a lifeline to help families weather the storm of the pandemic, addressing both practical and emotional needs. Parcels included food supplies, essential household items such as soap and toiletries, activities and wellbeing resources for children, signposting to other support and messages of hope written by you our supporters.

BOX OF HOPE TIMELINE

20th MARCH TLG launches Box of Hope appeal.

16TH MARCH Government COVID-19 restrictions begin to be put in place.

23RD MARCH UK Lockdown begins.

1ST APRIL 10,000 meals delivered as supporters back TLG emergency appeal.

The response of the UK church, and our supporters, to the Box of Hope project has been astonishing. Within two weeks of Lockdown restrictions coming into force, we were able to raise over £35,000 thanks to the generosity of hundreds of supporters. These funds kickstarted an initiative that would see the equivalent of over 183,000 meals delivered to children and

4TH JUNE Box of Hope project opens up to non-TLG church partners, with £200 grants made available.

7TH JUNE

An incredible 30,000 meals delivered!

families. A staggering 81 churches who had previously not partnered with TLG, also joined in with this national project.

Many of our TLG Early Intervention and Education Centre partner churches got involved too, sending out emergency care parcels to families they support. We have been inspired to hear how every single box has brought relief in a time of such unrest and hardship.

As we continue our Box of Hope response, we urgently need our supporters to continue to stand with us by becoming Hope Givers, so we can uphold a sustainable response for families in need of our long-term support.

FREE SCHOOL MEALS CAMPAIGN

TLG campaigned alongside others, including footballer Marcus Rashford, to call for the Government to fund holiday provision for children in receipt of Free School Meals over the course of the summer holidays, which they'd originally decided not to do. We were so relieved when the Government listened to our concerns. This is not just a COVID-19 specific issue so we will continue to ask for a permanent policy response.

16TH JUNE

Free School Meals vouchers made available over summer holidays.

TLG featured in BBC News, Channel 5 News, The Independent and The Daily Telegraph.

15TH JUNE

Marcus Rashford hits the headlines when he, along with TLG and others, calls on the Government to provide Free School Meal vouchers over the summer holidays.

Stories

Since day one, Box of Hope stories have been flooding in. Here are just a handful.

TLG Make Lunch, Luton

I enjoy finding out what we have in the box. It is very kind that we are given all this food to eat!

183,839 meals (and counting!)

185 churches running Box of Hope nationally

Dylan, aged 8, started Lockdown worrying about money after his dad lost his job. However, he was delighted when the new ‘Kids Can Cook’ recipe and ingredients pack was delivered by TLG Make Lunch at St John's Farley Hill, Luton. Dylan immediately pitched in and made a sweet potato tagine with his brother.

Sarah's Story

As featured on the BBC

“We’ve had no money for five weeks now.”

Those are the words of Sarah, mum of Archie (7), when she recorded a video diary early in Lockdown for BBC News. Sarah's story highlighted how people across the country were struggling.

Sarah, Sean and Archie have been going to TLG Make Lunch, Hinckley, for over two years. The club has been a rock for the family.

However, the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic clouded Sarah’s family in worry and fear. With income reduced and bills still to pay, Sarah wasn’t sure what the coming weeks were going to hold.

“Sean normally works in pubs and clubs so he could no longer work.

"So, we were really uncertain of the future and on top of that seeing the effect the loss of school has on Archie. He’s getting frustrated with the smallest things and really misses his friends,” said Sarah.

Like hundreds of churches, St John's Church, Hinckley, continued to serve the local community with care and compassion through the Box of Hope campaign. Volunteers packed over 600 emergency food parcels during Lockdown, even getting the local fire brigade involved to deliver the equivalent of more than 1,600 meals.

Filled with fresh food, staple household items and arts and crafts for Archie, the parcels have helped to support Sarah’s family for several days at a time and provided an opportunity for a quick doorstep chat, a boost of social contact in a lonely and isolating time.

“My favourite thing in a Box of Hope is the chocolate! I love getting the deliveries from the fire engine too and seeing what activity pack I’ll get each week,” said Archie.

The volunteers are amazing. Each parcel keeps us going for a few more days which is a God-send.

"Especially when we know we’ve got another week to go without having any money,” Sarah explains.

Children help to cook at many of the TLG Make Lunch clubs and the Boxes of Hope have been no different.

“My favourite ingredients to cook with were couscous and aubergine,” said Archie.

Whilst the family look forward to being re-united face-to-face with the church soon, Boxes of Hope have helped to keep the connection alive and provide vital support to Sarah’s family in the most unprecedented times.

Sarah has never felt more connected to her local church.

Now Church, Worksop

An incredible 81 non-TLG partner churches have already joined the national Box of Hope movement. All new churches are equipped with £200 funding and resources to kick-start their Box of Hope project.

“Without being able to run our regular community groups, it’s been a challenge to continue to make a difference in our area. The Box of Hope initiative gave us the tools we needed to

begin reaching out in a new way. We’ve now partnered with supermarkets and community workers and the whole church family is involved, supporting families in need at this difficult time.” Sian, Now Church, Worksop.

'Remember the one' TLG Make Lunch, Warwick

"From our early days with TLG Make Lunch, I remember someone saying 'remember the one' and that has never left me."

Audrey Akers and the TLG Make Lunch team in St Paul's, Warwick, are a wonderful example of the local church’s commitment to serving individuals struggling on the fringes of society.

A real openness has developed with the families they support, with relationships growing and blossoming throughout Lockdown.

“One single mum with two young children has been coming to TLG Make Lunch for a couple of years.

"She is normally very quiet and says very little but now she’s bubbly and chatty, it’s wonderful. Another lady we support came to us quite depressed and, whilst she doesn’t know what the future holds, the parcels are a sign of hope for her,” said Audrey.

The club has attracted all types of attention from the community, including from their local MP (inset), Tesco, Asda, the Heart of England Community Foundation and a local cake maker who has been busy making cakes to bring smiles to families in the community!

Together, they are making a huge difference.

Liz Philips: Coronavirus Community Hero

We were so humbled when one of our TLG Make Lunch Coordinators, Liz Philips, was a finalist for Britain's Coronavirus Community Hero in The Telegraph Lockdown Awards.

The TLG Make Lunch team at Lifespring Church, New Ollerton, have gone above and beyond during Lockdown, preparing emergency parcels for the families they normally support as well as introducing parcels specifically created for families struggling with mental health and relief parcels for families fleeing domestic violence.

“It’s been quite a journey! TLG has spurred us on to address the specific needs in our community”, said Liz. “It’s more than just about feeding children. When you chat with people as you deliver the parcels, the difference a conversation makes is phenomenal.”

£200 start-up funding, comprehensive resources and the process is

Photo from The Telegraph

Rev Canon Yemi Adedeji is both a Canon Commissary in the Anglican Church and a Pentecostal pastor at Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Jesus House London. He is passionate about helping children out of poverty.

With so much need in our communities, it has been humbling to see the Church rise up as one and deliver on its God-given assignment. To not only comfort those who mourn, but to show kindness and generosity to people severely impacted by COVID-19.

A recent report by the Evangelical Alliance tells us that not only did church attendance (virtually) rise during Lockdown, but as many as 88% of church leaders said their churches were (and still are) working tirelessly to meet the needs of vulnerable people struggling during this pandemic. Of these churches, 72% are working in partnership with either local authorities, other churches or charities like TLG.

Such a time

Rev Canon Yemi Adedeji offers his reflections on how TLG and the UK church have responded to the issues facing children and families in recent months.

It has been encouraging to see churches come alive in their call to help the less privileged, as set out in the Great Commission in Matthew 25. The Church has always been quick to serve communities when the need arises. That is what it is there to do. Not to look inward to its own people but to reach out to the suffering and weary beyond the church doors, irrespective of background, context, belief, orientation and ethnicity.

My local church raised £150,000 from donations and match funding to provide support for our community. I have been so inspired by the commitment and response from churches, organisations and individuals.

this time as

There are countless churches out there visibly taking action with many committed volunteers out on the street to shop and drop food for the elderly, the sick and those at risk. This is worthy of praise. But there are also many churches making incredible efforts that go unknown and unnoticed. These numerous unsung heroes motivate me, especially when they are not as resourced as the big churches.

It seems to me that TLG was created for such a time as this. To help these churches engage with the issues in their communities. Often, we do not know the capacity of what we carry until we are faced with a situation like COVID-19. The bigger picture goes far beyond the meals provided for the hungry, to the impact financially, emotionally and spiritually for all concerned.

COVID-19, along with other recent events, has brought to light some of

the previously ignored inequalities in our society. People of colour have been disproportionately more affected than their white counterparts. The virus has accentuated the unequal rates of poverty, job insecurity, low pay and overcrowded housing to name but a few. There’s no doubt whether people of colour took the brunt of COVID-19; they clearly did. The question is whether we all view these racial inequalities as a serious enough problem to do something about it.

I can see that TLG has for some years been on a journey of recognising and challenging itself over how it can work towards eradicating racial inequality. I have been encouraged to see

them speaking with others, including the One People’s Commission and New Testament Church of God, to ask the Government to ensure the role of black history, art and culture is incorporated into the school curriculum. And I’m encouraged that TLG is playing its part to ensure the children in its care learn about a society that truly reflects today’s multi-cultural Britain.

Most churches want to reach out to their communities and help those who are on the margins. We have an opportunity like never before to be light in the darkness and the salt to season.

The Persevering

Ninja

The transition to home schooling was difficult for many children and access to support networks were limited by Lockdown. How could TLG Early Intervention be a light in the darkness?

Kai was already finding school hard. He was restless and struggled to focus during lessons. He distracted others and quickly became angry, both at school and at home.

“I got in trouble in class because I couldn’t sit still,” said Kai. “I found it so hard to concentrate.”

Lockdown was no easier. Kai became frustrated at having ‘school’ invade his home environment. Tension was rising with his younger sister and he was scared of catching COVID-19 so he would refuse to play in the garden. As the days passed, he found himself getting angrier.

Kai is one of hundreds of children that TLG have continued to support throughout 2020.

Emma, Kai’s TLG Early Intervention coach in Stoke-on-Trent, has been a rock for Kai.

“Emma dropped a folder full of activities at my house at the beginning of Lockdown! It really helped me because it gave me some fun activities to do,” said Kai.

Emma was creative in the activities and resources she delivered.

“Some activities were more complicated than others, especially some of the wooden construction kits. But Kai persevered, making him even more proud of himself.” said Carol.

Remote Coaching

With Lockdown restrictions in place and schools closed, TLG Early Intervention had to adapt quickly. The new format was called Remote Coaching – a weekly phone or video call to the coached child, with their parent/carer joining in, and the delivery of resources through socially distant doorstep visits.

I like having the phone calls, they make me feel special. My coach is kind, thoughtful, nice and friendly.

Seeing the impact of sibling tension, Emma set exciting ninja challenges each week for Kai to complete with his sister, encouraging teamwork. Their relationship has flourished.

"We have seen some absolutely beautiful bonding time between them, which at times has been quite emotional to watch.” said Carol, Kai’s Nan.

Many of the activities were designed for the outdoors, encouraging Kai to overcome his fear of spending time in the garden and helping him to grow in confidence.

“I liked all the ninja activities the best!”

The activities have benefited Kai’s education too, helping him to practice patience and focus.

“Coaching has helped me to think about things and to take my time so I don’t rush my work. It has helped me to concentrate,” said Kai.

Emma calls Kai once a week to catch up.

Even the return to school looks more positive than ever. Once an isolated student, with Emma’s help Kai has been writing letters to one particular friend in his class. As schools begin to reopen, the friendship created will help Kai return to the classroom with increased confidence and assurance that he really is seen and heard.

Carol can't help but notice the transformation in Kai.

“Knowing he still had that connection with Emma during these last few months and hearing her encouragement has really helped him to build his self-esteem. Hopefully it will help him to settle back into school life.”

These resources, written by Rae Morfin, Head of Therapeutic Practice at TLG, were redesigned by the Volunteer Programmes team so that they could work remotely and to equip volunteers to support children through the emotionally heightened season of Lockdown.

We regularly share snippets of these resources on Facebook, so please make sure you 'Like' our page to see more of these yourself!

Here is a little glimpse of some we have shared recently:

Mini Puppet Theatre BOREDOM Breakers Activity

Giving up Giving up on

Shanice's life has changed from one defined by anxiety, to one full of ambition. Learning to stay calm in the midst of adversity has never been so necessary...

Shanice’s anxiety around school became so entrenched that some days she couldn’t physically walk through the school gates. Despite good grades, she really struggled with mainstream education.

“I just couldn’t stay in class. I missed lessons and didn’t complete my work. I wasn’t working well with the teachers and I needed help to stop giving up on my work,” said Shanice.

Shanice would rip out her work if she felt like she had made a mistake or felt like her work wasn’t good enough. Following several violent incidences, her school felt they could no longer meet Shanice’s Special Educational Needs.

“Shanice needed help building up her confidence and thinking skills. She had to understand that it’s okay to make a mistake and that her work was good enough for a teacher to mark,” said Cathy, Shanice’s mum.

Shanice joined the TLG Lewisham Education Centre in Autumn 2019 and things quickly began to improve. She was encouraged to talk about her feelings and be patient with herself.

The early stages of Lockdown were particularly hard. Living as a family of five in a temporary one-bedroom accommodation felt overcrowded and noisy.

“Shanice was desperate to go back to the Education Centre," explains Cathy, "as we didn’t have a lot of space at home, but she coped well thanks to TLG."

The team stayed in contact via phone calls, texts and email every day to ensure Shanice and her family were coping and check if they needed anything. They even helped the family get a laptop to help Shanice’s home learning.

Lockdown was a very difficult time for us and TLG Lewisham was our backbone.

more in the classroom. As a result, our family life has changed tremendously and we’re able to enjoy spending time together without the stress of school following us home. We are now a strong and confident family because we know we can get help and support from TLG whenever we need.”

Responding to trauma and emotional health

“Shanice learnt to be calm and be proud of her work,” reflects Cathy. “She is now able to regulate her emotions much better, which means she can focus and learn

Shanice's future now looks bright. She feels confident and is filled with ambition. “TLG has been really fun, I'm so glad I came here. I’m not disruptive in lessons anymore and I don’t give up on my work. Before, I wouldn’t ask for help and would just sit until the lesson had finished, but now I ask the teachers for help,” explains Shanice. “Now I want to become a crime prosecutor and then open up my own law firm!”

As Lockdown eases, it's becoming increasingly clear that one of the most significant impacts of this pandemic has been on our mental and emotional health, especially for children who were already struggling.

We recently invited relational trauma expert Louise Michelle Bomber to deliver three bespoke training sessions for all of our Education Centre staff. Many of the students we are supporting have experienced additional trauma or have sadly seen pre-existing struggles exacerbated during this pandemic.

We recognise that there will be children all over the country struggling with the emotional impact of COVID-19. With over 21 years of experience equipping people to support children and families in emotional distress, we'd love to share this with you and are offering FREE training for any church.

In September, we will launch two training opportunities:

Emotional First Aid

FREE online training to help you spot the signs of emotional distress in adults and children, and know how to respond to them effectively. www.tlg.org.uk/EFA

Emotional Rollercoaster

FREE interactive webinar and PDF resource for those who are supporting children aged 8-14yrs in their church community, packed with practical activities that explore and promote emotional wellbeing. www.tlg.org.uk/ERC

Pray with us

We know so many of you, like us, believe that God answers prayer. Below are just some of the issues that you can join us in praying for:

Social injustice

COVID-19 and other recent events have brought many pre-existing social injustices to light, including systemic racism, poverty and the educational disadvantage gap. Please pray for our children and their families who face injustice day after day, for the local communities supporting them and for the organisations who are engaging on a national level to bring about change.

Returning to school

Please pray for all our young people transitioning back into school after a period of huge upheaval.

Emotional Health

COVID-19 has triggered traumatic circumstances for many and has impacted the emotional and mental health of countless children across the UK. Please pray for the children who are in critical need of emotional, mental and trauma support. Please also pray for our staff and volunteers who are getting alongside children and families, offering holistic support at this challenging time.

Stay connected!

As you know, the news is constantly changing. As you can see from the stories in this magazine, we will always strive to adapt and change in response, so that we can be there when children and families need us.

Here are some ways you can stay connected and be kept up to date:

FACEBOOK

Follow us for stories, pictures from our families, tips for supporting children with their emotional health and video diaries from our frontline staff. facebook.com/tlg.org

EMAIL

You'll get a couple emails a month with important news, inspiring stories and ways to get involved. Sign up here: tlg.org.uk/connect/keep-in-touch

www.tlg.org.uk

facebook.com/tlg.org twitter.com/tlg_org

BECOME A

hope giver

TLG relies upon an army of like-minded supporters who believe that every child deserves hope and a future.

Could you join us and give a monthly gift that will literally transform lives for good?

Please use the freepost envelope provided or post this form to: TLG National Support Centre, Hope Park, Bradford, BD5 8HH

Title: First name:

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Tel:

I/we would like to become a Hope Giver and donate a monthly amount of:

I enclose cash / a cheque (made payable to TLG) for the amount above. on the 1st 15th (please tick) of each month, until further notice. The first payment will take place in (month/year)): M M Y Y

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Please claim gift aid on my donations to TLG today, in the past 4 years and in the future.

I confirm I have paid or will pay an amount of Income Tax and/or Capital Gains Tax for each tax year (6 April to 5 April) that is at least equal to the amount of tax that all the charities of Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) that I donate to will reclaim on my gifts for that tax year. I understand that other taxes such as VAT and Council Tax do not qualify. I understand TLG will reclaim 28p of tax on every £1 that I gave up to 5 April 2008 and will reclaim 25p of tax on every £1 that I give on or after 6 April 2008. Please notify TLG if your name, address or eligibility for Gift Aid change.

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Originator’s Identification Number: 8 1 5 7 3 4

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Emotional First Aid

FREE online training to help you and your church spot the signs of emotional distress in children and adults, and respond to them effectively.

TLG has over 21 years experience in equipping churches to understand and walk alongside children and families who are struggling with their emotional and mental wellbeing.

The impact of COVID-19 on mental and emotional health means this knowledge is needed more than ever.

To find out more visit tlg.org.uk/EFA

The Rollercoaster Do you work with 8-14 year olds?

The Emotional Rollercoaster is for you! It is a FREE interactive webinar with resources containing therapeutic responses, approaches and activities to explore emotional health with children and young people aged 8-14 years.

For more information visit tlg.org.uk/ERC