We are delighted to announce that The Red Hen Project has been selected as the official charity partner for the 2025 Cambridge Beer Festival, taking place from May 19 to May 24 on the iconic Jesus Green. This incredible opportunity will not only raise vital awareness of the charity’s work but also generate essential funds to improve the life chances for local children and empower their families here in Cambridge.
Founded more than 26 years ago, the charity’s dedicated family workers provide hands-on support through home visits, as well as working with children in schools and their families in the community. The Red Hen Project has partnerships with local primary schools, a social housing provider, and two GP surgeries and run a wide range of activities including weekly drop-in sessions and an after-school group, parenting courses, and family trips and experiences, all aimed at strengthening family relationships and ensuring children can thrive and reach their full potential.
"We are absolutely thrilled to be named the charity partner for this year’s Cambridge Beer Festival," said Sarah Crick, CEO of The Red Hen Project. "This is a fantastic platform for us to make the Cambridge community more aware of our work and raise crucial funds for our mission to improve the lives of local children."
“Most people have experienced the challenges involved in raising a child —whether directly as a parent, or indirectly as an aunt, uncle, grandparent, or friend. We all know that even when life is going well, the demands of family life can be overwhelming. For the families we work with, however, the challenges are often much greater, compounded by additional struggles such as financial hardship, social isolation, and emotional distress. These families often are carrying a heavier load. Our work is focused on easing some of that burden, offering support, and providing resources to help them overcome the obstacles standing in the way of a brighter future for their children.”
The Cambridge Beer Festival, organised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), is the longest-running CAMRA festival in the UK, with a proud history dating back to 1974. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year, offering a diverse selection of real ales, ciders, perries, international beers, mead, wine, and a famous cheese counter featuring British cheeses, pies, and snacks.
“It’s a privilege to support such a dedicated and local charity that is making a real difference in the lives of children and families right here in Cambridge,” said Anthony Mobbs, Charity Officer for the Cambridge Beer Festival. “The festival is not just about celebrating great beer, it’s about bringing the community together for a cause, and we’re proud to help raise funds for such an impactful organisation."
“Past charity partners have raised up to £25,000 annually through generous donations, and we hope to surpass this figure with your help. In addition to funds from beer glass donations and bucket collections, there will also be other opportunities throughout the week, which will raise further funds for The Red Hen Project.”
How You Can Help
The Red Hen Project needs volunteers to help run our stand, engage with visitors, and collect donations. The festival’s busy atmosphere provides a perfect opportunity for friends, colleagues, and community groups to come together for a fun and impactful volunteering experience. Volunteers will help with everything from collecting glass deposits to assisting with bucket collections, ensuring that we make the most of this incredible event.
We are looking for volunteers for multiple sessions throughout the festival. Whether you're volunteering for a few hours or an entire session, your support is crucial. Each shift is a fantastic opportunity to meet new people, support a great cause, and enjoy the festival atmosphere!
Festival Schedule 19-24 May 2024:
- Monday: 5 pm – 10:30 pm
- Tuesday – Friday: 12 pm – 3 pm and 5 pm – 10:30 pm
- Saturday: 12 pm – 10:30 pm
If you are interested in volunteering, please find more information HERE or email us at beer festival@redhenproject.org.
A Big Thank You to Our Volunteers
Volunteers will be given tokens to exchange for food and drink, and there is a private rest room with tea, coffee, and the occasional free beer (no promises!). After their shift, volunteers are welcome and encouraged to go on to enjoy the festival as a visitor.
The festival has a strong legacy of supporting local charities, and we are proud to be part of this tradition. The funds raised during the festival will directly support children through our services for families facing financial, social, and emotional challenges. Your participation will help us continue our essential work in the community, improving life chances for children who need it most.
