A Brief Summary of 2016
Once again it is a pleasure to report on another successful year for Help the Child. This year we helped 28 children in Somerset with the purchase of items of specialist equipment.
The year started with a supper evening and thoroughly entertaining talk by Tiggi Trethowan from the Antiques Roadshow. This event, attended by 130 people, raised over £2000 for the charity. Later in the year we held an evening Fashion show, an ever popular event, which was kindly hosted by Lime of Wedmore. A weekend Open House in Shapwick showcased the work of a dozen or so artists and makers from the area, and was an excellent chance to make some early purchases for Christmas whilst raising nearly £3000. The Christmas Coffee morning was a lovely way to welcome in the festive season.
Without the support and donations from a wide variety of individuals and groups, we would not be able to help so many children. This year we received donations from carol singers and tennis players, holiday makers and local shops. Special mention must go to the Young Farmers for a very generous donation.
Twenty eight children were helped with the purchase of a wide variety of items. Nine children received PPod seating or seating support systems, three were helped with mobility aids and three with communication software. Two were provided with specialist trikes and top up funds were provided, which enabled the purchase of a wheelchair. This year we also contributed items to a switch adapted toy library, set up to allow children to access a wide variety of stimulating toys. Other items included the purchase of sensory toys, buggies and accessories and a car seat.