By Alexander Penn
A Dalston woman who raised nearly £30,000 over two and a half years has been shortlisted for a national charity prize.
Alicia Weston, of Parkholme Road, has been nominated as the Most Creative Fundraiser of the Year in the JustGiving Awards 2013 with her unique Parkholme Supper Club. She donates the funds to medical care charity Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders).
The food fan welcomes 14 strangers into her home every fortnight and offers a tasty meal for £45 each, with £35 going directly to the charity and the remaining £10 going towards the food.
Ms Weston described the nomination as a “real honour”.
She said: “My JustGiving page has been invaluable in both taking and recording the donations from the 900-odd members of the public who have eaten at the supper club. I hope that being selected for the shortlist will draw attention to the valued work that Médecins Sans Frontières do and inspire others to think about alternative ways raising money for charity.”
The charity, which provides emergency medical aid around the world, thanked Ms Weston for her support.
A spokesperson said: “The Parkholme Supper Club is not only a demonstration of Alicia’s creativity but also of her commitment to the humanitarian cause. We thank her for putting so much of her time, effort and talent into supporting MSF’s vital work. Donations from individuals ensure our activities can remain independent, and that we can provide emergency aid to the people around the world who need it most.”
The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony at the Troxy in Stepney on April 11. There are 11 different categories including Endurance Fundraiser of the Year, Young Fundraiser of the Year and Charity of the Year.
Anne-Marie Huby, managing director at JustGiving, said: “Each year we are overwhelmed by the inspiring fundraising stories we hear, and the truly incredible lengths to which people will go for the causes they care about.”
For more information on the Parkholme Supper Club, visit this website.
