De Warmste Week, the beloved annual fundraising initiative, has once again ignited the spirit of giving across communities, with various events and activities aimed at supporting charitable causes and strengthening community ties.
This year, the Kortrijk conservatory hosted its traditional event, Warmste Kerst, on December 19. Under the warm glow of festive lights, students showcased their talents with performances, much to the delight of proud parents and faculty. The event raised €6,000, all of which has been directed to support Oxfam Wereldwinkel. Giovanny Saelens, the local official, enthusiastically remarked, “I have enjoyed the performance the students of our conservatory brought yesterday in the Concertstudio. What talent gathered on one podium and what magic to see children of different ages perform during this Christmas time.”
The annual concert is more than just entertainment; it has become a cherished tradition for both students and families, uniting them through the joy of music and the collaborative effort of supporting those less fortunate. Hundreds of students prepared for weeks, this year putting on the performance of Wonka, which is inspired by the life story of Willie Wonka from Roald Dahl’s _Charlie and the Chocolate Factory_. The event sold out, with 524 attendees filling the Concertstudio, and more spectators enjoyed performances across other venues, including the Auditorium at the Muziekcentrum Track.
At Muziekcentrum Track, alongside the concert, there was also a charming Christmas market held, where teachers and staff offered savory treats, ranging from pancakes to croques and hot beverages. This year, the market partnered with Oxfam, which sold its own products, adding to the festive atmosphere. All these activities contributed to the impressive total raised, showcasing how community involvement amplifies the impact of charitable endeavors.
Over in Westende-Bad, another corner of Belgium joined the movement as Rauschenbergplein transformed from December 26 to 30, inviting visitors to experience the Christmas spirit. Daily from 14:00 to 22:00, attendees could partake in activities and enjoy various festive offerings, with hopes to surpass the success of last year. Local business owners Wim Heggerick and Noëlla Vercauteren, who run the Picklebar on the square, expressed their excitement, stating, “Thanks to the success of last year, there will be a follow-up and we receive support from the Merchants' Union of Westende-Bad.”
Meanwhile, at the VTI Brugge school, students turned their last school day before the Christmas break on December 21st to meaningful action by engaging in a 12-hour run, channeling their energy to raise funds for De Warmste Week. Collectively, 1,200 students participated, demonstrating how educational institutions are embracing the ethos of charity as part of their mission.
Clubs and local sports teams also joined the fray. Club Brugge, the renowned football team, made headlines with their visit to De Warmste Handen, presenting a generous check to support the initiative, reinforcing the valuable role local organizations play during the fundraising week. The presence of local athletes not only shines light on the initiative but inspires fans and community members alike to contribute.
De Warmste Week, filled with cherished traditions and community collaboration, reinforces the importance of standing together for meaningful causes. These collective efforts remind everyone about the power of unity and support during the season of giving. With each initiative, the campaign amplifies its reach, demonstrating how even simple acts can lead to significant outcomes when communities come together.
Looking back, it is clear the success of De Warmste Week is not only about the funds raised but the impact it creates within local communities, promoting the spirit of generosity and compassion, especially during the holiday season.
