On Wednesday 9 and Friday 11 July over 70 residents from East London took part in 'afternoon tea' workshops to raise money for, and awareness about, breast cancer.

Strawberries, cream, cake and tea were enjoyed by participants at Heavitree Court in Walthamstow and at Staple House in Beckton.

Workshops included a Flower Gift Workshop, where residents' flower arranging skills were put to the test. They also made room decorations and played bingo, took part in a raffle and a Name Your Favourite Strawberry Dessert quiz.

All prizes had a pink theme to represent breast cancer awareness and many of the residents dressed up in pink for the occasion.

Everyone contributed to the afternoon, raising a total of £336 which has been donated to Breast Cancer Care.

These afternoons are part of Genesis Community's Life Long Learning programme which helps older people develop new skills. It also gives them the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that might not otherwise be available to them.

Nelly Fletcher, 97, from Staples House said "I have had such fun, it's nice to meet new people and be able to get involved. I loved getting my hands dirty and being able to keep my finished flower arrangement."

Polly Boardman, from Genesis Community, who organised the events said "It was wonderful seeing everyone take part and sharing their stories. Almost everyone knows of someone who has been touched by cancer and it was important to hear people talk about their experiences and make others aware. My favourite part was the sea of pink-clothed bodies all getting involved with the flower arranging."

Notes to editors

Genesis Community was set up in 2005 by Genesis Housing Group. It is a charitable foundation created to fulfil Genesis Housing Group's commitments to address the challenges of deprivation and social exclusion in disadvantaged areas. Projects delivered by Genesis Community focus on the key themes of young people, vulnerable and elderly people, safer communities, financial inclusion and training and employment.

Genesis Housing Group provides homes and services to tens of thousands of people across London and the south east. The Group consists of PCHA, Pathmeads and Springboard housing associations. It also has a charitable foundation, Genesis Community, and is one of the largest and most successful housing groups in the UK. Genesis Housing Group owns and/or manages more than 38,000 homes across London and the south east. Its overiding aim is to put customers first and provide excellent service to all.

Genesis is one of the largest registered social landlords operating in London. Hill Partnerships are the builder and they operate a considerate contractor's scheme. The project is based on a partnering contract which has meant that savings have been reinvested in the project to upgrade finishes. The architects are Stephen Davy Peter Smith Architects, based in Hackney.

Breast Cancer Care is the UK's leading provider of information, practical assistance and emotional support for anyone affected by breast cancer. All our services are free. Every year we give direct support to over 22,000 people with breast cancer or breast health concerns through our helpline, peer support and other direct services. In addition, we respond to two million requests for support and information about breast cancer or breast health concerns through our publications, website and outreach work. We are committed to campaigning for better treatment and support for people with breast cancer and their families.

Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk/ for further information.