Supported causes: CAFT

Wendy on CAFT

I first came across The Children's Adventure Farm Trust on Twitter. It’s so long ago now, I can’t even remember how it came about, but since then, I have made some lovely friends in the people who quite literally make magic happen at the beautiful 17th Century farmhouse.

Ten whole acres in Millington in the heart of the Cheshire countryside is dedicated to giving terminally ill, disabled and disadvantaged children a safe, caring, educational and more importantly FUN place to spend a few days. The facilities include rooms for music, art and games; a sports hall; a 5-part multi-sensory suite; adventure playground; nature trail; alpacas - the list goes on and on. Indoors, outdoors, whatever the weather, there are so many activities on offer.

The Farm is run entirely on charitable donations with no statutory funding whatsoever. All the members of staff are dedicated to raising awareness and funding and I can quite honestly say I have never known a place where every single member of a team works as tirelessly and with such love and compassion as they do at CAFT. I have witnessed it with my own eyes.

I have been to other establishments that care for children and they all provide a very important role in our society with equally dedicated staff and volunteers, but I have always left these places feeling desperately sad. The first time I left the Children’s Adventure Farm Trust, I felt exhilarated, happy and fired with enthusiasm to do whatever I can to help them. I can't run marathons or trek across deserts, but as long as I can pick up a paint brush, I will give them paintings to auction.

Many of the children who holiday here would never normally have the opportunity to experience the magic on offer at Adventure Farm, and I am delighted to be able to help in a small way towards the £800,000 that is needed EVERY year to keep the magic alive.

It doesn't take much effort to make a difference. Even buying some goods online through 'buy at CAFT' allows you to purchase items from a range of well-known retailers, and they receive a percentage of the value of your purchase! And there is always an adventure of a lifetime for you to get involved in. Last year the experience of crossing the Grand Canyon, this year a trek across the Sahara desert, next year… who knows?

For information of the work of Children's Adventure Farm Trust and fundraising opportunities, visit CAFT.co.uk or Follow @AdventureFarm on Twitter

The Children's Adventure Farm Trust

The Children's Adventure Farm Trust (CAFT) is a charity that provides life-changing experiences and opportunities to thousands of terminally ill, disabled and disadvantaged children every year. They have been providing holidays, daytrips and Christmas Parties to children in desperate need since 1992 at their amazing 10 acre site in Cheshire.

During their stay children participate in a fantastic range of activities including sports and games, animal care, multi-sensory play, art therapy, music therapy and imaginative play. All activities are fully inclusive and are led by their team of energetic and fun Play Workers.

The charity believes that all children have a right to play in a safe and stimulating environment. For many children, this isn't always possible in their normal lives. The Adventure Farm gives these children an opportunity to escape the stresses and traumas of their everyday lives, providing them with special memories that will last a lifetime.

Each year, The Adventure Farm must raise £800,000 in order to fulfil their promises to these children. They do not receive any statutory funding and rely solely on voluntary contributions in order to survive. For more information about CAFT please visit their website CAFT.co.uk

Photo's from CAFT