Garden party near Chester raises £1,700 for children's charity
The event was hosted by Kate and Martin Slack in support of Adoption Matters, a children's charity.
By Chester Standard
Garden party near Chester raises £1,700 for children's charity
A garden party hosted by Kate and Martin Slack near Chester has raised £1,700 for Adoption Matters, a children’s charity dedicated to supporting families through the adoption process[Chester Standard]. The event, described as a warm and community-focused gathering, brought together friends, neighbours, and local supporters who shared a common commitment to helping vulnerable children find stable, loving homes.
Kate and Martin Slack, who live in the outskirts of Chester, organised the fundraiser with the intention of creating a relaxed yet meaningful occasion where people could enjoy good food, conversation, and the outdoors while contributing to a cause close to their hearts. The couple has long been involved in local charitable activities and chose Adoption Matters after learning about the challenges many families face when navigating the adoption system in the region.
Adoption Matters works across Cheshire and neighbouring counties to provide guidance, emotional support, and practical assistance to prospective adopters, adoptive families, and children waiting for placement. The charity offers pre-adoption counselling, post-placement support, and advocacy services to ensure that every child’s needs are met throughout the process.
With the £1,700 raised, the organisation will be able to expand its outreach programmes and offer additional support sessions for families in need. The garden party featured homemade refreshments, a small donation table, and a quiet area where guests could learn more about Adoption Matters’ work.
Several attendees shared personal stories about their own experiences with adoption, highlighting the importance of accessible support services and the positive impact the charity has had on their families. The atmosphere was described as friendly and inclusive, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such a vital cause in a setting that felt both personal and welcoming.
Local residents praised Kate and Martin for their initiative and for creating an event that balanced celebration with purpose. “It’s not just about raising money,” said one neighbour who attended.
“It’s about showing that people in our community care, that we’re willing to come together for something that makes a real difference for children.” The success of the fundraiser has already sparked interest in organising similar events in the coming months, with several community groups suggesting they could host follow-up gatherings to continue supporting Adoption Matters. The Slack family expressed pride in the outcome of the event and thanked everyone who contributed, whether through donations, attendance, or simply sharing the news with others.
“We were overwhelmed by the response,” Kate said. “It’s proof that when you put your heart into something, people respond.
We’re so grateful to everyone who came and supported Adoption Matters.”
Adoption Matters welcomed the donation with enthusiasm and confirmed that the funds will be used to strengthen its support network for adoptive families and children. The charity’s director noted that community-led fundraisers like the Slack’s garden party play a crucial role in sustaining their work, especially as demand for adoption support continues to grow across the region.
The event stands as a testament to the power of local action and the strength of community spirit in Cheshire. By combining a simple garden gathering with a clear charitable goal, Kate and Martin Slack have helped ensure that more children and families can access the support they need during one of the most important journeys in their lives.