Residents and employees at an Extra Care development, have raised an impressive £1,640 for Dogs Trust through a community fundraiser.
The event at Gildacre Fields in Sunderland, was supported by colleagues and residents with activities including a raffle, football cards, bingo, a cake sale and the sale of dog treat bags – all organised to raise money for the UK’s largest dog welfare charity.
Leanne Dingwall, Housing and Care Manager at Gildacre Fields, said: “We’re incredibly proud of the effort and enthusiasm shown by both residents and employees in raising such a fantastic amount for Dogs Trust. Gildacre Fields is a pet-friendly scheme with many animal lovers in our community, so this was a cause close to many hearts. The response was overwhelming, and it was great to see everyone come together for such a positive cause.”
The idea for the event came from the shared love of dogs among the Gildacre Fields community, and was organised by Jane, an Assistant Care Manager at the scheme. As a pet-friendly organisation, Housing 21 supports residents living with pets, and many of those at Gildacre Fields are dog owners. The event was inspired by this connection and the desire to give back to a charity that supports canine companions.
Raffle prizes were generously donated by residents and staff, and dog treat bags sold on the day were made up from further donations. The event was a true team effort that reflected the strong community spirit at Gildacre Fields.
In a letter to the scheme, Em Windsor, Community Fundraising Assistant at Dogs Trust, said: “Thank you for your wonderful donation of £1,640, raised through your fundraising. From all of us at Dogs Trust, thank you very much, we are incredibly grateful for your support.”
Gildacre Fields is managed by Housing 21, a leading not-for-profit provider of Retirement Living and Extra Care for older people of modest means. The scheme provides high-quality housing with on-site care and support, enabling residents to live independently in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
