The rain was pouring down on the afternoon of Saturday Nov 8th, but the brightly coloured bunting with flags of countries from around the world made a cheerful welcome for our neighbours from Streatfeild Avenue as they arrived at the “Get Together” at Conflict and Change.
Inside there was home made food, games and activities for the children and a “getting to know you” bingo activity for adults. Ros and a multi lingual volunteer team had been out knocking on doors during the week, and again on the day, inviting every home in Streatfeild Avenue. Their persistence paid off as the room began to fill with more than 20 adults and around 10 children. Many did not know each other, and welcomed the chance to “break the ice” and talk for the first time. Some had lived in the street for more than 30 years, others only a few months. The volunteers engaged people in conversation, played games with the children, got people involved in the getting to know you activity, and handed round food and drink. Everyone went away happy and appreciative.
As a way of continuing to build relationships there will be a follow up event in 3 weeks to share “Streatfeild Avenue” stories.
