Banbury's Sunrise Project - a lifeline for many - celebrates 30 years in the community
Banbury’s Sunrise Project has celebrated 30 years of providing a lifeline in the community - with a party with cake.
Sunday’s gathering was a truly special day for the charity and workers welcomed 150 guests including staff, volunteers, trustees, supporters, funders and beneficiaries past and present, to celebrate three decades of community impact and reflect on the incredible journey Sunrise has travelled.
“The event was full of joy, community spirit and heartfelt moments – it is a real milestone for us,” said Anila Malik.
"As a grassroots charity we are keen to raise awareness of the support we provide locally and we are keen encourage others to get involved through volunteering, sponsorship, donations or partnerships.”
The multicultural project held the anniversary celebration at Calder Close, Banbury in premises provided by EMBS Community College.
Founded to support children and families in Banbury, Sunrise Multicultural Project has grown into a trusted community charity providing vital support for individuals and families from diverse backgrounds across the town.
Today, the organisation delivers a wide range of services including women’s and men’s drop-in sessions, an Over 50s’ monthly breakfast club, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes, youth clubs, Saturday clubs for children, advice and support services, domestic abuse support and programmes tackling isolation, wellbeing and social exclusion.
The celebration was a true reflection of Sunrise’s community spirit with entertainment and activities for all ages including a magic show for children, face painting, henna tattoos, a raffle featuring generous beauty prizes and an abundance of food shared by the community, much of it donated by supporters and lovingly prepared by Sunrise.
Speaking at the event Shamim Rehman, Sunrise Trustee, said: “In today’s world, where division can sometimes feel louder than unity, Sunrise reminds us of the power of compassion, community and standing together.”
Sunrise CEO, Maria Holden said: “Reaching 30 years is an extraordinary milestone for any grassroots charity and it speaks volumes about the trust our community has placed in us over the years.
"Sunrise has always been about people creating a place where individuals and families feel welcomed, supported and valued, regardless of their background or circumstances.
"We have seen lives transformed through friendship, advice, practical support, youth opportunities and simply by being there when someone needs us most.
"Today was not just a celebration of our history but a celebration of every volunteer, staff member, trustee, partner and beneficiary who has helped shape Sunrise into what it is today. We are incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and excited for the future.”
During the event, Sunrise reflected on its humble beginnings and remarkable growth over three decades through speeches delivered by staff, volunteers and trustees. What started as a small local initiative has evolved into a lifeline for many families in Banbury, particularly those facing poverty, isolation, language barriers, domestic abuse or challenges accessing services.
The anniversary event served not only as a celebration but as a heartfelt thank you to the many people who have contributed their time, care and dedication to Sunrise over the years.