Partnerships

As a church we support the world fair trade movement through the UK based organisation ‘Traidcraft’ which sources products from farmers, growers and artisans across the world ensuring that producers receive a fair price for their goods. Goods bearing the Fairtrade logo ensure that goods meet an accepted standard and that a fair price has been paid for them, enabling producers to pay fair wages to their workers. In addition, a Fairtrade premium is paid into a fund for workers and farmers, to use as they see fit to improve their local social, economic and environmental conditions. Traidcraft also sells goods made by reputable UK companies using raw materials sourced from around the world on a fairtrade basis.

At Downing Place, we have a Traidcraft stall after the service on Sunday mornings selling cards and foodstuffs. Catalogues of Traidcraft’s full range are available and items can be ordered on request.

Downing Place URC is a loyal supporter of Cambridge City Food Bank. Prior to the corona virus lockdown, there was a monthly collection. Since then we have encouraged members of the congregation to remember to drop their food donations in one of the bins provided at most local supermarkets. When we move into our new building and can meet again in person we will resume the monthly collections.

One of our Elders, Stephen Thornton, is the Chair-designate of the Food Bank and a number of members of our congregation are volunteers.

Every day people in the UK go hungry for reasons ranging from redundancy to receiving an unexpected bill on a low income. A simple box of food makes a big difference, with foodbanks helping prevent crime, housing loss, family breakdown and mental health problems. The Food Bank is dependent on schools, churches, businesses and individuals donating non-perishable, in-date food. Large collections often take place as part of Harvest Festival celebrations and food is also collected at supermarkets.