The Greenfingers Charity Kilimanjaro Challenge team has reached Day Three of its extraordinary trek to the summit of Africa's highest mountain, with fundraising now exceeding an incredible £225,500 towards the creation of a new Greenfingers Garden at Naomi & Jacks, a children's hospice in Winchester.
The team of 23 trekkers, drawn largely from across the UK horticulture industry, set out earlier this week to take on the challenge of a lifetime. As they continue their ascent, spirits remain high despite increasingly demanding conditions and the growing challenge of altitude.
Speaking from the mountain earlier today (Sunday 14th June), Greenfingers Charity Ambassador and trek organiser Kate Ebbens shared an update with Linda Petrons, Director of Fundraising & Communications:
"Day 3 on Kilimanjaro and what an experience it has been so far. The company has been fantastic, and the Charity Challenge team have been absolutely amazing, supporting us every step of the way and making sure we're all looked after."
"We're all facing our own personal challenges on the mountain, whether that's coping with tired legs or simply pushing beyond what we thought we were capable of. But the incredible thing is that everyone is looking out for one another. The encouragement, laughter and team spirit have been just as important as our walking boots!"
"The food has been surprisingly good too, which is definitely helping keep us going! Today we caught sight of the summit in the distance. It still feels a very long way away and there are undoubtedly some tough days ahead. But what keeps us motivated is knowing we have the support of colleagues and friends back home and remembering why we're doing this. Every step is helping Greenfingers Charity create a magical garden at Naomi & Jacks for children with life-limiting illnesses, their families and carers. Thinking about the difference this garden will make gives us the determination to keep putting one foot in front of the other."
"The summit may still seem far away, but so does anything worthwhile when you first set out. Together, we'll get there."
The challenge is raising vital funds for Greenfingers Charity's latest garden project at Naomi House & Jacksplace. Designed by award-winning garden designer Helen Elks-Smith, the garden will provide a beautiful, therapeutic outdoor space where children with life-limiting conditions, together with their families and carers, can spend precious time together away from the clinical environment.
The £225,582 raised so far reflects the extraordinary generosity of supporters from across the horticulture industry and beyond and represents a significant step towards making the Naomi & Jacks garden a reality.
The team still has several challenging days ahead and would welcome the support of individuals and businesses alike. Donations and sponsorship can be made via the Greenfingers Charity Kilimanjaro campaign page with every pound raised helping to create a very special hospice garden.
Supporters can find out more and sponsor the team at the campaign page: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/greenfingers-kilimanjaro2026?msockid=1eafd943419f65a403cfcc2b407f640a
