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Children’s charity provides support to those less fortunate by offering holidays to remember
A Birmingham community has joined together to raise funds for charity, KIDS, in order to renovate a caravan which will be used to provide memorable holidays to families with children that need extra support.
KIDS was established in 1970 by teacher John Mulcahy, who recognised the need for extra support for the disabled children in his school, and focuses on working in partnership with parents and carers, to ensure that the children can fulfill their potential, hopes and aspirations.
The charity threw an Irish variety night fund-raiser – held in the Sheldon Heath Social Club on 3 May – complete with Irish dancing from the Carey Dance Academy, and story-telling, in order to raise funds for the renovations to the caravan, which KIDS have had for ten years. A raffle was also held, with prizes donated from local businesses.
Local Police Community Support Officer (PCSO), Anne Cunningham, lent her support to the fund-raising process and spoke about her contribution with Sutton Coldfield Local: “During a recent visit [KIDS] staff told me they were seeking support to refurbish and repair their caravan. Our team has great links with businesses throughout the local community, so I approached Wickes who were equally happy to help out.”
The proceeds raised went towards sprucing up the caravan, which is situated in the picturesque Cotswolds. On top of cleaning the caravan inside and out, all-new mattresses, crockery, kitchen equipment and carpet have been bought or donated and new radiators have been installed courtesy of Wickes. The caravan – now gleaming – is ready to provide a fantastic holiday experience to many children and their families who would not usually be able to afford the pleasure.
The CaravanTimes spoke to Liz Cunningham, senior administrator with KIDS, who told us just how important a resource the caravan is: “Some children with Autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) need quiet time and a holiday at the KIDS caravan provides a relaxing and calm environment in a peaceful location in the beautiful Cotswold countryside.
“Families can take a short stroll into Broadway, visit other local attractions or make use of the on-site picnic area. The site has modern indoor facilities such as a swimming pool and games room so activities can be enjoyed virtually all year round,” she continued.
Liz also revealed how thrilled KIDS were with the success of their fund-raising night: “We have been overwhelmed by the generosity of the artistes who gave freely of their time, energy and resources to make the evening such a fantastic event. Local businesses have pulled together to donate great raffle prizes, monetary donations as well as items for the caravan.
Liz continued: “The whole evening had a real community feel about it and it was so successful that we were inundated with requests for the next one- which we are already working on!”
KIDS have kindly sent us some before and after pictures which show the amount of work that has been put in to the caravan, so check them out and let us know what you think.
BEFORE:
AFTER:
If you would like to donate to KIDS to help them continue their fantastic work click here
