Send a Cow celebrate 20 years of passing on hope

If we all passed on a little of what we have, the world would be very different. That's the message from Send a Cow, which is celebrating 20 years of passing on hope in Africa this year.

The Christian charity was founded by a group of UK dairy farmers in 1988 with the spirit of sharing and giving at its heart. All families helped by Send a Cow pledge to pass on the skills and benefits they gain to another family in need - meaning that just a little assistance goes a long way.

Churches and church groups are being invited to hold fundraising events for the 20th anniversary of Send a Cow. A church pack contains fundraising ideas for groups, individuals and children, ideas for worship, and links to online resources, all inspired by the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand.

"Christian values are at the heart of Send a Cow, and support from the Christian community has been key to our growth over the past two decades," said Send a Cow Chief Executive Martin Geake. "Send a Cow's 20th anniversary is a reason to rejoice in true sharing and fellowship with others, while helping to ensure that we continue to grow for another 20 years."

Send a Cow was born when a group of dairy farmers sent pregnant cows from their own herds to poor families in Uganda. Today, Send a Cow works in 10 countries in Africa giving hope by providing a variety of locally bought animals and other assistance.

Other plans for the 20th anniversary celebrations include a network of Big Birthday Bashes, a Thanksgiving Service in Bath Abbey, and a Pass It On appeal.

Visit the Send a Cow stand at S3 in the National Christian Resources Exhibition, Sandown Park, Esher in Surrey from Tuesday 13 - Friday 16 May 2008.