Challengers Take Part In Charity Drive To Raise £90,000

Published on: 1 Dec, 2024
Updated on: 1 Dec, 2024

Ten-year-old Toby

By David Reading

Challengers, the Guildford-based charity that provides play opportunities for disabled children, is launching a new campaign to raise much-needed funds. They have set a target of £90,000.

The charity is taking part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024 – a match-funding campaign that doubles every donation made through its Big Give page.

From midday on Tuesday, December 3, to midday Tuesday, December 10, every pound contributed will go twice as far in supporting disabled children and their families during a critical time of need.

Challengers say seven out of ten parents of disabled children report a decline in their children’s wellbeing, with many youngsters facing increased anxiety due to a lack of accessible support services.

The charity says: “We aim to address this pressing need by raising £45,000, which when matched by the Big Give, will double to £90,000.

This funding will provide 300 days of essential respite services, offering parents the peace of mind that comes with knowing their children are safe, supported and engaged in meaningful, fun activities.”

Children who will benefit include Toby (pictured), a 10-year-old with autism, ADHD, a learning disability, and chromosome disorders that result in very complex needs. Toby’s mum, Natasha, shares how Challengers has been a lifeline for their family since Toby was three. Watch Toby’s story here: https://disability-challengers.org/big-give/

Gen Dearman, Challengers’ CEO

Challengers’ CEO, Gen Dearman, said: “This year the Big Give Christmas Challenge allows us to make a greater impact in the lives of families who rely on us. Every contribution makes a difference, helping us to provide invaluable support to disabled children who need it most.”

People can get involved by visiting disability-challengers.org/big-give and can make a donation from midday December 3 until midday December 10.