Sunflowers, Coffee & Creativity to Support SAFE Essex

A vibrant community fundraiser is set to take place on Sunday 25 October, 11:00 AM–2:00 PM, at Anke’s Tea & Coffee Lounge on London Road—bringing people together for art, conversation and vital support for SAFE Essex, a local support group that raises autism awareness and provides essential support to autistic individuals and their families across Essex, Southend and Thurrock.

Everyone will be welcomed with freshly brewed coffee, friendly faces and a showcase of stunning sunflower artwork created by some of the support group’s talented members during the final week of the Sunflower Art Project. These pieces have ‘bloomed’ as a result of creative workshops attended by some of the individuals and families the charity supports.

There will also be a raffle to help raise as much-needed funds as possible on the day —and if anyone would like to support by donating a prize, please get in touch with Andrea Walter at development@safeessex.org.uk

Everyone—community members, friends, families and supporters—is invited to drop in at any time. Come for the coffee, stay for the creativity, and leave knowing you’ve helped make a meaningful difference to autistic adults and their families across Essex.

SAFE Essex is a registered charity that raises autism awareness and supports autistic children, young people and adults, as well as their families, all over Essex, Southend and Thurrock. It provides support groups, social activities and practical guidance on issues including benefits, Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), employment preparation and developing social skills and meaningful connections.

Coffee shop owner Anke says:

“I was inspired to create this fundraiser whilst seeing some of the charity’s fantastic members and supporters come together and create some lovely artwork in the shop during weekly sessions.

“SAFE Essex does incredible work to support autistic adults in our community so I just wanted to do a little to help raise some funds where I could”.

Event Schedule Highlights
11:00–11:30 AM – Welcome & Gathering
11:30–12:30 PM – Sunflower Art Exhibition
12:30–1:30 PM – Community Ideas & discussion
1:30–2:00 PM – Fundraising & close