A NEW charity is aiming to help children who have experienced abuse, trauma, or bereavement through the use of therapy animals.
Hopes Heart charity has been launched by three members of its sister charity Hope’s Therapy Dogs and has a goal to provide support to children affected by trauma in schools across the region.
One of the charity founders, Catherine Whitlow, from Penketh, explained more on the mission of the cause, saying: “Every child deserves the opportunity to live feeling safe, happy, and with a sense of hope for the future, and that's exactly what Hope's Heart can offer, particularly when vital services and school funding is stretched to their limits.
“It is such a privilege to work with my cocker spaniel, Lola, in schools, supporting children during their darkest moments and helping them find hope again."
Catherine, along with the two other founders of the charity, Ali Colley, and Sarah Clark, are completing an Ultra Challenge Walk this July to raise funds and awareness for their newly established charity.
Also members of its sister charity, Hope’s Therapy Dogs, the trio have already seen how the animals can make such an impact on the lives of so many.
Hope's Therapy Dogs has become a beacon of support in schools across Warrington, Widnes, and Liverpool, utilising the comforting presence of therapy dogs to aid children's emotional well-being.
It has even been nominated for a BBC Merseyside 'Make a Difference' award with finalists being announced in the Summer.
Now, with the inception of Hope's Heart, each member’s mission has expanded to ensure they can support children who have experienced abuse, trauma, or bereavement.
This is through the use of therapy animals, art, and music as healing tools.
And the charity has a personal element, being named after Ali’s daughter Hope, who courageously fought cancer before sadly losing her battle in 2018.
On July 6 and 7, Ali, Catherine, and Sarah will tackle the hilly Peak District Ultra Challenge, a gruelling 73km trek over two days.
While accustomed to daily walks with their therapy dogs, this endeavour presents a mammoth challenge, one they hope will inspire support and generosity from the community.
Training for the trek has included upping their mileage on dog walks each day in preparation.
And the girls are asking any members of the public to offer words of support if they see them in passing during the challenge, around the Trans Pennine Trail near the Ferry Tavern, or Walton Gardens.
To support Hope's Heart and contribute to their noble cause, donations can be made at justgiving.com/crowdfunding/HopesHeartWalk
Every penny donated is another child helped. Hope's Heart is holding an official launch celebration event soon when they secure a suitable venue.
They are also currently seeking craft donations, particularly dog-themed items for the tombola, cake sales, etc.
For further information, contact Ali at ali@hopesheart.org.uk.
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