Partner Article

Charity Chief Executive steps up to Kilimanjaro Challenge

With only three weeks to go a planned charity trek has failed to raise much-needed funds for the renovation of the Farm House at Norton-based charity Daisy Chain so the Chief Executive has decided to put on his walking boots.

Daisy Chain’s income is down dramatically, around 30% from this time last year, and treks bring in a significant proportion of income. The planned trek to Kilimanjaro, the highest point in Africa, raises much needed funds for Daisy Chain, which works with families across the Tees Valley who have children affected with Autism.

Matt Simpson, Chief Executive of Daisy Chain, said: “Every single penny counts in this difficult economic climate and we need our treks throughout the year to raise as much money as possible. Unfortunately, due to last minute injuries and changes of circumstance, the trek has fallen below the minimum number of participants needed to make this trip financially viable and we now stand to lose a significant amount of money. This means that renovations on the Farm House will have to come to a complete halt and we may have to look at cutting our provision.”

Matt has made the decision to take part in the trek himself, and aims to raise as much money as possible for Daisy Chain in the next few weeks.

Matt continued: “I have never taken on a physical challenge of this magnitude. I haven’t taken part in any training and as yet don’t even have a kit! But I know that it is critical that this trek raises as much money as possible and I just hope that people will get behind me and Daisy Chain.”

Matt now needs your support as he attempts not only to climb the highest mountain in Africa but also raise much needed income for Daisy Chain.

Daisy Chain is a unique charity that addresses the needs of children on the autistic spectrum and their families. The charity provides a range of services, including support and activity groups for the whole family from our 5.5 acre farm in Norton. Daisy Chain receives no formal funding and relies on the support of business, the community and individuals.

To sponsor Matt please visit his Just Giving page – http://www.justgiving.com/Matt-Simpson2

For more information on Matt’s Challenge and about taking part in the next trek for Daisy Chain or how else you can raise money and get involved visit the website at http://www.daisychainproject.co.uk or contact us on 01642 531248.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Sarah Morrison .