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Ann Goldsmith - continued

 

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Continuation


This wasn't just a charity shop - The Oasis Project is about empowerment.

It was Chris Hayter's dream, but last November her vision became a reality after months of hard work.


Chris and I had many conversations about her visits to Gambia. She ships unwanted, good quality items donated by family, friends and companies to the project shop in Gambia. The items are sold at a small fee, which goes straight back into the community in Bakau, to build a better future for those less fortunate than ourselves!


Something I found truly amazing was the way everyone welcomed us with such warmth and generosity in Gambia. Everyone was so friendly. Everyone on the compound was so kind. Such generosity from desperately poor people was very humbling. I learnt a lot from this attitude. Whilst we were there, Chris' friends on the compound threw a party in her honour. It was to celebrate her birthday, to thank her for what she has done for them and their community and to welcome her family and friends to Gambia.


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I have never experienced such hospitality and generosity. None of us, including Chris were expecting such a party. They had organised people to come to our hotel and play drums for us all the way to the compound. They had invited people from the nearby compounds to join us too. When we arrived at the compound it was wonderful. We were greeted with a huge welcome, music, singing, dancing and so much food that they had prepared for us. People were prepared to go without to feed us! It was so overwhelming and again, extremely humbling. We were all shocked and quite emotional. Chris was so shocked. She just kept saying "…I really was not expecting this!"

 

This party was in her honour and it emphasised the impact that Chris and The Oasis Project has had on everyone in the community and how much she means to them. It was their way of saying thank you to her for everything she has done and giving something back.

 

When I first saw the shop, before completion, I was amazed at the interest shown. It was great meeting everyone and being a part of something so significant. It made it all worthwhile. It was wonderful watching the transformation of the shop on my trip. Chris recently told me how well the shop was doing and that the money has gone straight back into the community. Now that's what it's all about! Truly inspirational!

 


 

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We also visited some schools and donated pencils, books and small gifts for the children. Their gratitude was again extremely humbling. There is such a stark contrast with what our children have in England compared to Gambian children. It struck me how focused every child was in the classroom. They all wanted to learn. Education means so much to them - it is everything. For many it's all they have!

 

Whilst in Gambia I built a lifetime of memories, forged many new friendships and had countless humbling experiences. I have seen first hand the impact of The Oasis Project and am continuing my support in any way I can. If any of you or your companies would like to offer donations or assistance with shipping costs or in any way you feel you can help, please get in touch. If you have read this personal account of my trip to Gambia and are interested in offering assistance in any way please contact Chris Hayter on 07710 625202 or email oasisproject@hotmail.co.uk .

 

Anne Goldsmith

 

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