Four siblings decided to turn lockdown into an opportunity to achieve something positive for their local community. Aware that Winchester Churches Nightshelter is currently operating day and night, they decided to bounce on their trampoline non-stop for 24 hours to raise vital funds to help the Nightshelter keep its extended opening hours.
The family, from Winchester, are long-standing supporters of the Nightshelter. It was Micah, age 11, who came up with the idea, determined to help support people experiencing homelessness during these challenging times.
Micah was joined by siblings Salome age 14, Apphia age 12, Eben age 11 on Friday 26th June when they started bouncing at midnight. They then took it in turns to jump on the trampoline nohn-stop for the next 24 hours during which time they battled some very hot temperatures as well as exhaustion.
The children’s mum Lorraine commented on the achievement: “I am incredibly proud of them all. It is so good that they have thought about the experiences and needs of others and even though they are only children they have had the motivation to do something to help. They were really keen to meet their fundraising goal so I am pleased for them that they managed it!”
The fundraising foursome managed to exceed their original target and have reached an impressive £1,113 in sponsorship which will be donated to the Nightshelter.
Michele Price, Chief Executive of the Winchester Churches Nightshelter commented: “We are so grateful to the Hedges Family for their amazing fundraising. What an achievement! I admire their determination to use lockdown as a time to do something to help the Nightshelter.
“We are so grateful to all our supporters for enabling us to continue to be there for people experiencing homelessness throughout the pandemic. We want to stay open 24 hours a day for as long as possible, the funds raised by the 24-hour bounce will help hugely. On behalf of staff, residents, volunteers and directors, I would like to thank Salome, Apphia, Micah and Eben.”
You can support our Stay 24/7 Appeal here. We asking for help to remain open 24 hours a day, seven days a week over coming weeks to ensure residents can continue to stay safe.
