The Greenfingers Charity’s ambitious Kilimanjaro Trek has stormed past the £40,000 fundraising mark with more than six months still to go before the 23-strong team sets foot on Africa’s highest peak.

The total continues to climb as new adventurers sign up, including the latest fundraisers to join the challenge, Helen Taylor from Allan Morris Estate Agents in Worcester and Theunis (Rene) Reinder Assies from Power Sonic. Their involvement reflects the growing momentum behind the trek, which is uniting supporters from across the garden retail sector, alongside new friends from the wider business communities, all working together to raise the profile of the children’s hospice garden charity.

The fundraising pot was given a huge lift recently at a packed charity auction, where over 80 guests dug deep to support the cause. Thanks to their generosity, plus an incredible 101 auction prizes donated by industry suppliers and supporters, the evening raised a significant sum, further boosted by a lively raffle.

Prizes on the night ranged from indulgent local beauty treatments and stylish garden pots and furniture, to mirrors, lanterns, plants, gardening tools and a host of unforgettable experiences. Every winning bid and raffle ticket has helped push the Kilimanjaro total to new heights.

With more events already in the diary and new trekkers like Helen and Rene stepping forward, the team now has its sights firmly set on a £100,000 fundraising goal.

The funds raised will go directly towards the design and creation of a brand-new Greenfingers garden at Naomi House & Jacksplace in Winchester, a beautiful, fully accessible outdoor sanctuary where children with life-limiting conditions and their families will find comfort, connection and precious moments of escape together.

Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications at the Greenfingers Charity, said: “Our Kilimanjaro Trekkers continue to amaze us. Smashing through £40,000 with months still to go is a phenomenal achievement, and we’re thrilled to welcome new adventurers like Helen and Rene to the team.

“We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has already supported the trek, from the suppliers and supporters who so generously donated auction and raffle prizes, to every guest who bid, bought tickets, has sponsored a trekker, their kit or have helped to spread the word. And with the challenge drawing ever closer, we’re hugely thankful for the continued backing we know will make all the difference in the months ahead. The collective energy, belief and generosity behind this incredible effort will enable us to create truly magical outdoor spaces for the children and families who need them most.”

Join the adventure
It’s not too late to be part of this extraordinary challenge. If you’re inspired to take on Mount Kilimanjaro in June next year - or would like to support the team by sponsoring kit or equipment - please contact Kirsty in the Greenfingers Fundraising Team at fundraising@greenfingerscharity.org.uk.

In the meantime, you can also follow all the latest updates from Greenfingers on social media - @Greenfingerscharity on Instagram and LinkedIn, https://www.facebook.com/Greenfingerscharity/ and @GreenfingersCha on Twitter.