St Lucius’ Farnley Tyas have recently hosted a highly successful ‘Crafty Swop Shop’ to support their twinned parish of Rorya in Tanzania.
This event brought together the Farnley Tyas Community Group, the Women’s Institute, and the St Lucius’ Eco-group.
Through their joint efforts, the event managed to raise £600, enough to provide a flock of sheep for their twin parish of Rorya in Tanzania.
The ‘Crafty Swop Shop’, held at the Silver Eco Church, brought together community members to exchange items they no longer wanted or needed.
Swapped goods included fabrics, wool, art and craft materials, books, and patterns.
What began as a simple concept to reduce waste and share resources quickly blossomed into something much more meaningful for the participants.
Kath Hinchliff, one of the organisers, said: “Last year we held a Craft Fair in church and raised £750, which bought seven sewing machines for Bishop Musa’s women’s livelihoods project in our twin parish of Rorya.
“That project aims to equip young girls and women who have missed the opportunity to further their education or who married early.
“By giving them sewing skills, they have the chance to earn money for living and family support.
“So, it seemed to us appropriate to continue our relationship with the parish in 2026.
“Thanks to everyone’s generosity and enthusiasm, the event raised enough money to fund an entire flock of sheep for families in Tanzania.”
This achievement will offer long-term support by providing wool, milk, and a sustainable income to those who need it most.