We were thrilled to have a feature on the easyfundraising blog this week. Please see below:

During the Easter period, we launched The Egg Hunt competition, where supporters could win a £5,000 donation for their cause, courtesy of TUI. Nigel, a supporter of Sparkle, was the expert egg finder and we were delighted to sit down with Tracey, Fundraising Support Officer at Sparkle, to talk about their services and how the prize will be put to use. Sparkle have to date raised just under £6,000 via easyfundraising, thanks to supporters shopping online.

Sparkle is absolutely thrilled to hear the news that we have won £5,000, thanks to Nigel who is one of our amazing easyfundraising supporters! We rely 100% on donations, fundraising and grants to support our work, as we receive no statutory funding. As many know, we are currently experiencing huge demand for our services, and extreme financial challenges, as our costs increase, so this extra funding is very gratefully received.

We need to raise £800,000 per year to continue our services. This £5,000 will help Sparkle continue providing specialist leisure clubs to the children and young people who attend our centres 6 days per week, which have been described as a 'lifeline' for children with disabilities, and our support for families.

We are currently seeking funding (via easyfundraising and other channels) towards our accredited swimming lessons, which support children with disabilities to learn a lifesaving skill. Lessons take place in a hydrotherapy pool, which is extremely important to our children and young people who require access to a specifically heated pool due to their medical conditions. It is highly beneficial to those with mobility issues and also providing a quieter, less crowded environment which benefits those with sensory difficulties.

A final word from Nigel, on winning £5,000 on Sparkle's behalf:

"I am absolutely delighted that Sparkle has won this money, at a time when they are really struggling to fund their vital services. This £5,000 will mean children with a disability or learning difficulties will now have the opportunity to enjoy activities and clubs that other children take for granted."

Thank you easyfundraising, Nigel and TUI, for making this all possible. We are so very grateful to receive this funding!

You can support Sparkle via easyfundraising here.