A YOUNG boy from Chester has set up a stall outside his home to raise money to help families suffering in the wake of last Monday’s attack in Southport.
Max Lee, 10, has raised more than £200 so far selling drinks, pick and mix sweets, cakes and handmade cards with the assistance of his mum, Laura, and brother, Joey, 8, from outside their home in Blacon.
Max had begun on Sunday (August 4) by setting up a stall to sell apples, picked from the garden, and drinks before deciding that he would like to give the proceeds to charity.
Communities in Southport were devastated last week after three young girls were killed whilst attending a Taylor Swift-themed dance event on Hart Street.
18-year-old Axel Radakubana from Bank, Lancashire, has been charged with three counts of murder and 10 of attempted murder.
Max’s mum, Laura Wolfe, said: “We told him about what had happened [in Southport] because he’d seen a bit of it on the news and we explained it to him and he said, ‘I’ll donate my money to them then’.
“He bought loads of sweets with the money that he’d raised before and made some pick and mixes for kids, and he bought some dog treats that he could give out for free.
“Last night he was up making some marbled birthday cards and then he had me and his brother making cakes.
“He’s loved it, and it’s made him happy to know that he’ll be helping people. He said he hopes that it will inspire others to do something similar.”
Max has been manning the stall each afternoon this week, speaking to neighbours and passing residents, many of whom have given donations.
Laura added that the community have been “so generous”, and that people often drive past and wave to Max while he is outside.
Max added: “I’m hoping to give the money to Southport this Friday, and maybe in a few weeks I’ll do another charity fundraiser.”
Dad, David Lee, said: “They have had fantastic support from the local community as well as people just driving past on Saughall road.
“I've also agreed with my sons that whatever total they raise by Friday, my business will also add another 50 percent towards the total.”
His mum says that Max has now put together a ‘stock room’ in the garage and is working on more cards and items to sell for the remainder of the week.
The family have contacted Southport’s MP Patrick Hurley to find out where they can send the final amount.
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