Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm has launched a campaign to raise £30,000 to put towards a brand-new camping facility for the young people, schools and local families who access the charity.
The challenge is in celebration of 30 years of Lineham Farm, which was transformed into a centre for children in 1993. Since then, it has become a safe haven and a place for adventure for over 2,000 children a year. The charity hopes to provide for even more young people from across Leeds each year with the new campsite facility.
Dave Norman, CEO of Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm, explains:
“The campsite will give the chance for some of the most disadvantaged young people and families in Leeds to escape their daily struggles and experience a proper break – the unforgettable holiday that every child deserves.
“We estimate the total costs to build the campsite are in the region of £100,000, with the initial £30,000 allowing us to apply for planning permission, build the foundations, and set up running water.
“Over time, we plan to add camping tents and bell tents, toilet facilities, electric, cooking spaces and equipment, seating areas, campfires, and BBQs. Everything required to enable more young people in Leeds in experience the great outdoors.
“It costs a great deal every year to run Lineham Farm and deliver the weekly school groups, residentials, and respite breaks. Our “30 for 30” campaign has been launched to raise the extra funds needed to achieve this exciting new facility, to enrich the experience for even more young people.”
Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm is dedicated to supporting the most disadvantaged children in Leeds. These children often live in poverty, act as young carers, and come from challenging and chaotic home lives in areas of deprivation.
Children are referred to the charity by schools, social workers, and partner organisations with the support of their guardians. The charity is partnered with schools in the most deprived areas of Leeds to help as many of the most vulnerable children as possible.
Children visit for a day of respite, a week’s holiday, or a school residential. A child’s time at Lineham Farm is about having adventures, making friends, experiencing new things and taking time away from challenging circumstances to make happy memories.
Young people take part in activities including climbing, archery, biking, bushcraft skills and nature trails. The campsite would be an additional facility for the charity, enabling more groups of young people to experience Lineham Farm and everything it has to offer.
Jenny Jones, Fundraising Manager for Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm said:
“Spending time in the great outdoors should be part of every childhood. For many children who visit Lineham Farm, it is the first time they have experienced the countryside, seen a sheep, or stayed away from home. The skills and resilience gained from time spent at Lineham Farm help young people build confidence and grow into successful adults.
“Sadly, there are many struggling families across Leeds where holidays, breaks or even a day trip away can never happen. We believe that every child and family deserves the chance to feel happy, have adventures and make memories to last a lifetime.
“We are looking for businesses, schools and individuals to get involved to help us reach our target. Whether that’s a one-off donation or galvanising a team around a fundraising target, we need your support. £30,000 is an ambitious goal, but the people of Yorkshire are generous, and we are hopeful of achieving it!”
