Salvation Army club celebrates anniversary (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Salvation Army club celebrates anniversary

7:10am Wednesday 25th November 2009

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VOLUNTEERS in Kidderminster are celebrating the fourth anniversary of the Salvation Army’s children’s group.

The Jesus and Me (JAM) club held at the church building in Jerusalem Walk was set up by previous leaders, Geoff and Glenis Bonsell, who wanted to provide a safe place for youngsters to play and socialise in the area.

Now 30 children attend each week and three parents have become involved in helping run the group.

Maria Bull, 35, was encouraged to bring her then three year-old daughter to JAM Club by one of the church’s youth leaders.

She explained: “Jennifer really has a good time here and all the kids have space to enjoy themselves in sports, crafts and team games, then go into the church for a singalong and a Bible class.

“I thought it would be nice to help out one week and I’ve been here ever since! I really enjoy it too, as does my youngest Stephanie.”

Each week, Mrs Bull is joined by married couple Claire and Carl Cooper, who take their three children aged 10 years, 6 years and eighteen months.

Part-time nanny Mrs Cooper, 31, said attending the club helped her get re-acquainted with the church where she grew up.

“It’s nice to be back at The Salvation Army, to see them working with young children and to be part of it too,” she added.

A trainee electrician, Mr Cooper said: “Sport is always a good way to engage with children - the physical exercise is good for them but so is the opportunity to learn about rules and authority. It’s nice also to see their relatives come out to support them at activities we hold.”

Betty Ebury, a member of the army’s leadership team, said: “It is fantastic to have volunteers like Carl, Claire and Maria supporting the church with such loyalty for such a long time.”

The club, for children aged four to 12 years, meets every Friday between 5pm and 7pm.

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