‘African children will benefit from your generosity’

Jan 21 2008 by Gavin O'Connor, South Wales Echo

‘African children will benefit from your generosity’

A CHARITY worker is heading back to an African orphanage with money and gifts for sick children – thanks to Echo readers.

Tracey Ricketts, of Gilbert Street, Barry, flew back to Ghana on Saturday after a generous response which included more than £500, toys and other donations.

Two weeks ago, the Echo told the story of how Tracey, 26, gave up her assistant manager job at Peacocks in Cardiff and re-mortgaged her house to live in the tiny Ghanaian village of Agroyesum.

Since then people have chipped in with donations of between £10 and £200 and Tracey’s former school has also dedicated itself to raise £1,000 this term.

Lesley Olden, deputy headteacher of Bryn Hafren Comprehensive School, said: “We invited Tracey into assembly and I think the children look up to her now as a past pupil who’s making a real difference to people’s lives.

“I remember her when she was here as a youngster and she was a wonderful pupil.

“The children have come up with ways to raise money and one which we think will work is a coin path around the school – a collection of change.

“She seems to be very happy with what she’s doing and I think it’s an inspiration to others.”

Tracey filled two 23kg cases with the things she’s been given and possessions to allow her to stay in Ghana indefinitely.

She said: “I’m so grateful for all the things people have given me. It will mean the world to the children.

“There was a lady called Liz Dollah who knitted 17 mini teddies with her daughter to give me and I was contacted by fundraisers who gave me good advice – and money.

“My friends from Peacocks also gave me a load of baby clothes.

“It was nerve-wracking visiting my old school but it’s really nice they’ve taken on the fundraising campaign.

“It will benefit a lot of people.”

For more information on the orphanage you can e-mail Tracey at: tracey.mariama@hotmail.co.uk

gavin.o’connor@mediawales.co.uk