Local resident Elaine Wilson contacted the Go Green Week students as soon as she heard about the event to see if she could have a stall on Nature and Biodiversity day. Her recycled products for sale got everyone excited in the SU.
Elaine raises funds for Animal Nepal and Hillside animal sanctuary by selling re-gifted, recycled and up-cycled products. If the term re-gifted is unfamiliar, Elaine explains:
‘It’s an ideal way of re-homing any unwanted birthday or Christmas gifts. Sometimes you get given items you really don’t need or want. Socially many of us feel awkward about telling the person who’s given the gift. By re-gifting you feel good that the item will go to a ‘good’ home and you’ve not offended the giver. It’s a win win situation.’
Elaine is passionate about the charities she fund raises for. Animal Nepal was founded in 2003 by a group of enthusiastic Nepalese and overseas animal campaigners. Animal Nepal runs outreach programs for strays and working donkeys, with two sanctuaries. It also actively campaigns for better conditions for Nepal’s animals. They believe that through awareness-raising and practical interventions, widespread animal cruelty can be gradually reduced, and that Nepal can ultimately become a model country for animal welfare in the region.
‘ I like to discuss these issues with people who come to buy from stalls I run. The charities and local staff are great campaigners to evoke and change in people’s thinking on animal and environmental issues.’
Elaine points out:
‘They are run by volunteers; hence any money raised goes a long way.’
It was a very good few hours for Elaine’s stall. She spoke to many students about animal welfare issues and also took over £40. It was very worthwhile and Elaine hopes that she is invited back again for future Go Green Week events.