Public Service students at South Essex Colleges Group (SECG) volunteered to cover donation slots in Sainsburys supermarket, Southend and helped to raise an incredible total of over £9,000 for the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal.
Whilst at Sainsbury’s, the students found a comrade in Charlie 91, who is a veteran from the East Anglia Regiment.
The students also took part in a Poppy Walk along Southend Seafront, laid a wreath at Southend Cenotaph and held Remembrance Day events at college campuses in Basildon, Southend and Thurrock.
Curriculum Leader - Public Services, David Birnie said: “I am absolutely delighted by the incredible efforts of our Public Service students in supporting The Royal British Legion with their Poppy Appeal. Their dedication and hard work contributed to raising an outstanding £9,391.89.”
Southend District’s Poppy Appeal Organiser, Alan Stevenson, said: "On behalf of the Southend District of the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal, I heartily congratulate SECG’s Public Service students for supporting our appeal for 2024.
I also congratulate them in their own fundraising efforts within the college in collecting £155.96 at the Remembrance Service, which will help to provide much needed help and support for our Armed Forces veterans who have given so much.”
Quality Improvement and Education Manager, Shanell Johnson, who played a significant part in the Remembrance Day events added: “We are really proud of all our students at SECG. The Remembrance Parade it’s a very special moment for many people, including those who have family members who served, or people impacted by wars past and present. It’s a chance for us to reflect on the newer conflicts that plague the world.”