A charity which takes hundreds of disadvantaged Leeds children on much-needed sunshine breaks has launched a new fundraising appeal to help give its play facilities an overhaul.
The Leeds Children’s Charity offers mini-holidays for almost 500 youngsters aged from seven to 11 every year at its centre in Silverdale.
Bosses are currently dismantling the holiday centre’s existing outdoor play area – which has become worn over time – and replacing it with modern, colourful facilities.
The work has been made possible by grants from the Wades’ Charity, Leeds Building Society Charitable Foundation, the Variety Club Children’s Charity and others.
However around £5,000 is still needed to help pay for a new zip wire, the “final piece” in the refurbishment project.
Verlie McCann, chair of the charity’s trustees, said: “The trustees are extremely grateful for the opportunity to put a fantastic play area in place for children who will enjoy a short break at the holiday centre and particularly for those children who have little opportunity to play outside in the fresh air.
“The existing play area was made out of wooden structures and over the years they have deteriorated, so we are putting in modern, colourful and bright equipment for the children.
“We are now seeking funding for a 2.4 metre zip wire to complete the play area and we hope to be able to install this final piece when money is available.
“We hope to get the majority of things in place by February, when the children start coming.
“It’s a respite for a lot of them. They often come here for a break from difficult circumstances.”
The Leeds Children’s Charity was founded in 1904 and over 58,000 have benefited from its services in that time.
Visit leedstosilverdale.co.uk or call 0113 2454281 to donate.
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