Unique charity event raises thousands for Leeds children’s charity

A group of charity fundraisers have taken on a challenge with a difference for Leeds-based children’s charity SNAPS raising an incredible £4573 so far!

The first ever Stranded for SNAPS event saw participants taken out on boat from Leeds Dock and stranded until they could raise the funds needed to get back to shore.

With an allotted time and a fundraising target, the group set sail from the dock via water taxi with their phones, laptops and a book of contacts. Working against the clock, they enlisted the help of their connections, persuading them to donate vital funds for SNAPS. The group were able to return to dry land once they had reached their fundraising target.

Participants included Gemma Smith, CEO of housebuilder Strata; Leigh Unwin, owner of Leeds fashion boutique The Style Attic and whose daughter Edie attends SNAPS, and disability awareness campaigner Rachel Hill, who owns the Bondville Model Village in Sewerby.

The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Cllr Abigail Marshall Katung, also went along to provide support and encouragement to the group as they sailed around the dock. The Lord Mayor said of the event - " What a great way to spend a Tuesday morning! I had so much fun, for a wonderful cause! It was my first ever time on the water taxi and it's such a wonderful way to see our beautiful city. The team raising funds for SNAPS did an incredible job and I'm delighted to have been part of such a fabulous event."

SNAPS, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, supports children with additional needs and their families through physiotherapy, leisure services and a supportive environment. SNAPS receives no statutory funding to deliver its services, and all funds raised from Stranded for SNAPS will go towards the charity’s vital work.

Leigh Unwin comments: “I’m so happy that we’ve been able to raise so much money for SNAPS! This money will go towards supporting families such as mine, and I know first-hand the impact that it will have. The physiotherapy that Edie receives each week at SNAPS is undoubtedly one of the best parts of her week. Thanks again to everyone who has donated.”

Lisa Morton, head of fundraising at SNAPS, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that our first ever Stranded for SNAPS event has been such a success.

“A huge thank you to everyone who came along to provide support today, and especially to Gemma, Leigh and Rachel for their commitment to this challenge. Their incredible efforts will help us to make a real difference to the lives of the children and families we support.”