During October half term, seven young school friends in Year 4 at Newbridge Primary School in Bath took on an epic walking challenge to raise vital funds for local charity, Julian House. Over three consecutive days starting on the 24 October, the girls clambered steep hills, traversed muddy paths and faced heavy rain to complete their 16-mile challenge and raise an incredible £1,775 for Julian House.
Inspired by a talk in class about the struggles faced by people experiencing homelessness, the young friends, Scarlett, Hattie, Mina, Amity, Mia, Lauren and Ursie, wanted to raise money to help.
Eight-year-old Mina explained, “We wanted to do the walk for Julian House because at school we have been learning about how hard it is to be homeless and what Julian House provides for them. I think every homeless person should at least have hope that they will find a home one day, and Julian House helps them achieve that dream.”
Scarlett added, “We wanted to raise money for Julian House so that they can continue to help more homeless people in Bath.”
The girls took on some tough routes for their challenge, which included a steep ascent to Bath racecourse and down to Primrose woods, and a muddy circular course around Park, Rainbow Woods and Smallcombe Vale.
But despite having sore feet the girls remained in high spirits. “It was worth it to raise money for Julian House,” said Lauren. “I loved doing the walks and it has made me want to do more things for charity.”
Amity added, “All you need to achieve anything is sweets and friends!”
Jess, Senior Community and Events Fundraiser at Julian House, said, “These girls are an inspiration. To hear about the struggles of someone else and immediately want to do something to help just proves how compassionate and caring these young friends are. They’ve done such an incredible job, facing difficult weather and a tough challenge to raise a phenomenal amount.
“As we go into winter, their support and funds raised will be needed more than ever. Their money raised will help us provide essential life-saving care and support for very vulnerable men and women. At a time when such individuals face the double threat of COVID and plunging temperatures. Thank you so much for your support girls – it’ll make a big difference!”
To find out more about the challenge and support it, please click here: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/4H-JH
To find out more about how Julian House supports men and women experiencing homelessness, head to its website: https://www.julianhouse.org.uk/
Julian House is also offering local primary schools a free resource pack with KS2 lesson plans, a virtual video assembly and winter fundraising ideas. Please request a pack here: https://www.julianhouse.org.uk/support-us/schools/