BRINGING FESTIVE CHEER TO EDEN VALLEY CHILDREN

In a heartwarming effort to brighten the festive season, The Arts Society Appleby is delivering 55 specially created "art bags" to the Appleby Food Bank on Thursday, December 19th.

"This initiative, known as the Eden Art Bags Project, aligns perfectly with the society's motto, 'Bringing art to all.'"

While Cumbria is renowned for its stunning landscapes, many families face financial hardship. In the Eden Valley alone, over 70 children rely on food banks, reflecting wider statistics of poverty across the county.

Each art bag is filled with age-appropriate materials designed to inspire creativity and nurture young minds. Supplies include coloured pencils, drawing pads, water colours, and art books tailored for pre-school, primary, and secondary school children. For many of these families, accessing such resources would be out of reach, but the project seeks to spark joy and creativity—perhaps even unlocking hidden talents that could shape futures.

This venture has been made possible through the combined efforts of The Arts Society Appleby, a £500 grant from the North West Area Arts Society, £150 from Eden Country Care, and generous donations from society members. The bags will be distributed with food packs just in time for Christmas, bringing smiles to children and easing pressures on families.

"The project has been a true team effort, with the committee working together to bring the initiative to life. By delivering these art bags, The Arts Society Appleby demonstrates its dedication to fostering creativity and supporting the local community."

The Arts Society Appleby invites anyone interested in art and community to join their welcoming group. Events are held at the wheelchair-friendly Market Hall, where visitors can enjoy stimulating lectures and a chance to meet like-minded individuals.

By bringing the joy of art to children in need, The Arts Society Appleby is showing how creativity can transform