A family-run group of day nurseries and forest schools in Warrington is celebrating after raising over £26,000 for charity.
Dunky’s Day Nurseries & Forest Schools has been fundraising for The Children’s Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT) in Millington, Cheshire since 2020.
Throughout the year, children, families and staff from the seven nurseries carry out numerous events including sponsored walks, runs, cake baking and seasonal fayres. One of the nursery school dads even added £375 to the total by doing a 5k daily run.
Dunky’s raised £6,214 for CAFT last year and staff from the nursery this week presented the charity with a giant cheque.
CAFT, which relies on the support of many people across the North West, makes a big difference to children who are living challenging lives due to illness, disability and disadvantage.
They provide day trips, short breaks and respite activities for thousands of children from all over the North West who may have complex medical needs, special educational needs and disability or are socially disadvantaged.
Last year, CAFT supported 22,655 visits for children aged 0-17 who needed it most.
Jane Mclean, Senior Manager at Dunky’s Day Nurseries & Forest Schools, said: “Wherever we have a nursery, we make it a mission to build strong links to support the local community.
“CAFT is a charity that is very special to us and the work that they do to support children living challenging lives is inspiring.
“We started fundraising for CAFT over five years after myself and a group of managers went to visit the farm and saw the difference they make to local children and families. All of our nurseries get involved, coming up with lots of different ways they can fundraise, and we’re proud to have raised more than £26,000 for them.”
Hannah Grahame, Fundraising Lead for CAFT, said: “What an incredible amount, which has such impact at CAFT for so many children and their families who visit.
“More than anything, I’d like to thank Dunky’s for all they do to support our work, helping children across the North West who are living with chronic illness, disability, and social disadvantage.
“We simply couldn’t do what we do without the kindness of groups like Dunky’s.”
CAFT has recently launched a free membership scheme for individuals, families and companies to further deepen CAFT’s existing relationships, broaden their support base, and create a diverse community of passionate advocates. Members have a say in the charity’s future, strengthening their governance and accountability while helping shape the Farm’s continued success. To learn more, visit the website: www.CAFT.co.uk/membership
Follow @CAFTcharity
