Doubling the Impact: Harpenden Lions Matches Lea Primary's Toilet Twinning Success
When the Year 5 students at Lea Primary School & Nursery decided to raise money for Toilet Twinning – a Tearfund initiative tackling the global sanitation crisis – they showed the kind of determination and compassion that truly inspires us. Their energy and enthusiasm resulted in £240 raised. But the story didn't end there.
A Mini-Fair with Maximum Heart
In June, Year 5 organised a vibrant after-school mini-fair that brought the community together and proved that young people can be powerful agents for change. The event was packed with activities: a tombola, lucky dips, a teddy guess-the-name game, a toy stall, a puppet show, archery and knock-the-can. But the enterprising spirit didn't stop there – five children also set up their own stall selling homemade lemonade, cakes and donuts. The popularity was overwhelming, and the fundraising momentum was unstoppable.
Harpenden Lions Steps In
The Year 5 team had shown genuine commitment to making a difference, and that resonated deeply with us at Harpenden Lions Club. We believe in supporting local initiatives that embody the values we hold dear: citizenship, community spirit, and global responsibility. That's why we decided to match their £240 donation.
By doubling their efforts, we've brought the total to £480 – enough to twin 8 toilets across 6 countries.
What Toilet Twinning Really Means
It's easy to take access to clean, safe sanitation for granted here in Harpenden. But for millions of people across the world, it remains a critical challenge. Toilet Twinning, run by Tearfund, funds water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) projects in some of the world's poorest communities. Every toilet twinned directly improves the health, dignity and opportunities of families – particularly women and girls.
The 8 toilets we've helped fund are now reaching families in:
- Nigeria (2 toilets), Uganda (2 toilets), Nepal, Malawi, South Sudan and Bangladesh
Why This Matters Locally & Globally
This project is the perfect embodiment of what modern citizenship looks like. Year 5 didn't just learn about global issues in a classroom – they took action. They organised, they worked together, they engaged their community, and they made a tangible difference to families thousands of miles away.
And Harpenden Lions? We walked alongside them, matching their generosity and amplifying their impact. That's what being part of a community means: when young people step up, we step up with them.
The Ripple Effect
This is far more than just a fundraising success. It's a reminder that young people care deeply about the world, and that communities like ours have the power to turn that caring into real, lasting change. Year 5 students have learned that their actions matter – that a mini-fair, homemade donuts and a shared commitment can literally change lives on the other side of the world.
Join Us in Celebrating
Whether you're a supporter of Harpenden Lions, a parent of a Year 5 student, or simply someone who believes in the power of community action, this project shows what's possible when we come together. We're incredibly proud of what Year 5 has achieved, and grateful for the opportunity to double their impact.
If you'd like to learn more about Harpenden Lions, our community initiatives, or how you can get involved, visit www.harpenden-lions.co.uk or find us on Facebook and Instagram.
Together, we're making a difference – one toilet at a time.
