A school in Kent has made us its Charity of Choice for 2023 – our 80th anniversary year – and has already held a series of fundraising activities involving each of its year groups.
The Abbey School in Faversham has organised bake sales, sponsored walks, colour runs, collections and more so far this year, with even more to come, as a way of supporting us so that we can support fire service personnel and their families in their community and across the UK.
As a way of celebrating our 80th birthday year, the school recently gathered to create a ‘human 80′, with stunning drone shots capturing the moment.
The school’s Deputy Headteacher, Alice Le Brunn-Healey, says: “We’ve unfortunately had quite a few of our students’ parents and grandparents who have been affected by fire, so this is a Charity that’s pretty close to our hearts and something we thought really deserves the support.
“Plus, having the fire station so close to our school site means it feels so much a part of our community.”
She adds: “The public absolutely have to support our emergency services because it’s that selfless giving, putting your life on the line for the lives of others.
“We’re really excited because this year we’ve supported the Charity in its 80th birthday year. We’ve had lots of activities throughout the year, whether it’s baking, making or being creative to raise money. And the students have really engaged with the Charity, not just because of those personal stories, but also because the fire engine has come on site and they’ve been able to see the firefighters – I think that’s really inspiring.”
Meanwhile, student Megan Burney, 15, says: “We’re looking forward to doing a colour run tomorrow in aid of the Charity. We’ve also done a cake sale and tombola which were really fun, because we were able to interact with people.
“Personally, I’ve been able to see a lot of what my dad does as a firefighter. The difference they make in their community is absolutely massive. I’d definitely say firefighters are heroes because they’ll be there for you no matter what. Even if my dad wakes up at 3am, he could still go out to a fire… they’re always there for you no matter what the time is or where you live.
“No matter what you can fundraise for the Charity, everything’s going to help. Every little helps, no matter what you can get. It’s just been really fun to get involved and help people out.”
Our Community Fundraiser, Louise Furneaux, adds: “We’re so grateful to The Abbey School and all its teachers and pupils for their support throughout this year – a particularly special year for us.
“Every year group has got involved with activities in aid of us, with some fantastic ideas from everyone involved. Seeing the whole school come together to ensure they then made each idea a success has been lovely to see. A massive thank you from all of us at The Fire Fighters Charity.”
To find out more about making us your Charity of Choice, you can speak to your local Community Fundraiser, or contact our Corporate Partnerships and Philanthropy Manager, Debbie Rushbrooke, on drushbrooke@firefighterscharity.org.uk.
