Tina Jullings, who founded Essex Therapy Dogs in 2021, said:
“In 2023, we were invited to join the Fun Walk for the first time. Registration was simple to do, and we were provided with posters and sponsorship forms which were sent to all the members of Essex Therapy Dogs.”
“As the event was so flexible, our members were able to complete the 5k sponsored walk anytime between 1st – 30th September, and we decided to schedule a week of sponsored walks in Colchester, Braintree, Southend, and Chelmsford during the first week of September where we raised over £300. The Fun Walk Trustees then gave us £122 from the bonus pot. As a small charity, every penny raised helps us provide comfort, help and support to people who need it. For these people, a visit from a therapy dog can be the highlight of their week, as our dogs can help the sick, lonely and elderly people feel happier and not so alone.”
“We have signed up again to do it this year and are looking forward to raising more much needed funds for our amazing dog therapy group.”
Richard Moss, Community and Health Development Manager at Witham Leisure Centre said:
“Essex Therapy Dogs have been joining us at our Social Spaces sessions for over a year now. They have proved hugely popular with visitors, in particular children. We love the partnership with Essex Therapy Dogs and we are fully supportive of their mission statement. The dogs bring real joy to members and visitors at Witham Leisure Centre.”
The Fun Walk team is estimating that over 90 charities and a record 3,000 supporters will take part in this year’s walk, and look forward to seeing all the returning organisations as well as those participating for the first time.
Fun Walk Trustee, Sandra Bastow, said:
“There is still time for charities, local schools and churches, grass roots sports teams and other community interest groups to participate – they can register at www.thefunwalktrust.co.uk“
“We are lucky to have the support of wonderful local businesses who have donated over £30,000 to this year’s Bonus Pot. They include Greater Anglia, Sanctuary Housing Association, Brown & Carroll, Butyl Products Group, Tunnelcraft, IFE Global Logistics, Mr Barrie Stone and others.”
