LONDON
The Goan group ‘Helping Hearts Community’ (HHC) brought the community together for its 3rd Annual Free Summer Fete at St Mark Recreation Ground, Swindon, on August 8, as part of efforts to support Swindon’s homeless and vulnerable communities.
The event was a celebration of community, friendship and togetherness, beginning with prayers led by Fr Dominic from St Mary’s Church.
The organisers were welcomed Deputy Mayor Swindon Borough Council Gail Cook and Chief Guest Ravi Vaz, president of Goan Association UK.
Guests were treated to an afternoon of entertainment hosted by MC Joel and MC Vanessa, with live music from MVP 26 and entertainment from DJ Joel and DJ Eddie.
The Goan food stalls comprised Chef De Braganza, Grace’s Kitchen and Fernandes Caterers, all serving traditional Goan specialities, The Rangers Bar, a Scarrott Fun Fair for children, game stalls for children, Henna, information on Diabetic Eye Screening, St John Ambulance, Changing Suits Charity information, and an ice cream van.
In his address, Ravi Vaz said the HHC which Ana Fernandes had started comes straight from the heart.
“It's not about how big you make an impact. Every small impact changes lives Change Life in every small way. It's not about how big is the event or how small the event. It's about bringing communities together,” said Ravi.
“The 3rd Annual Free Summer Fete has brought the local community together in a big way, and it's all about making an impact in a very small way.”
Dy Mayor Gail Cook expressed her gratitude to the organisers, the Helping Heart members for helping the needy.
HHC team member Daniel Vales said the event was a true celebration of community, kindness and togetherness.
“Ana and the entire team continue to do so much for our community, making a real difference.
Ana has been a great driving force behind the success of both this event and the HHC,” said Daniel.
Added another HHC team member Blancy Fernandes: “The atmosphere at the Summer Fete was full of energy, with great music, entertainment, food and plenty happening for all ages. It was especially nice seeing so many faces, catching up and simply enjoying the summer together.”
“Community events like this are more than just having fun, they bring people together, create beautiful memories and, most importantly, support a good cause.”
HHC Founder Ana Fernandes expressed her gratitude to her husband Francisco Gonsalves, her two children and the dedicated Helping Hearts team — Elizabeth Fernandes, Daniel Vales,
Blancy Fernandes, Meural Cardozo, Francisco Antao, Gloria Fernandes, Francisco Gonsalves, Breeda Pereira, Jocelina Dsouza and Princia Fernandes — for their hard work and support.
“The HHC is all about bringing our community together. We are very grateful to everyone who attended, volunteered and supported the fete, helping to make it a memorable day for the whole community,” said Ana Fernandes.
Helping Hearts Community
Formed in December 2020, the HHC team started by Ana Fernandes, Elizabeth Fernandes, Francisco Antao, Francisco Gonsalves and Cynara Monterio are involved in a monthly commitment to reach different areas of Swindon.
Through this initiative, the HHC seeks to extend a helping hand to those who are struggling, particularly those who find themselves without a home or adequate resources.
The HHC provides not only groceries and essential items, but also hot meals started from April 2025 in sheltered housing to those in need.
“The HHC’s goal is to continue this initiative regularly, ensuring that hot meals and groceries are provided to as many individuals as possible.
The HHC team is made up of several Goans who have played an instrumental role in the HHC’s initiatives. Their involvement not only strengthens the community bonds but also highlights the Goan community’s long-standing tradition of helping others, particularly in times of need.
Through this initiative, the team aims to engage the broader Goan community in Swindon and encourage them to contribute to charitable efforts.
The collective involvement of Goan volunteers adds a culturally significant aspect to the HHC’s outreach, reflecting a community that values service, unity, and compassion.
