We are delighted to announce that after a three week public voting period in the Affinity Water Community Engagement Programme we had the most votes and that means we won the £3,000 cash grant on offer. 

Surrey Wildlife Trust and Swingbridge Community Boats were also looking for votes in our region but Cherry Trees has walked away with the most. 

In our application we stated the money would be a boost to our bathroom renovation project. Head of Fundraising Jill Cook was thrilled by the result: 

‘When the news came in that we had won the most votes in the Affinity Water Community Engagement Programme we were all jumping for joy. We had spread the word far and wide to our supporters to get on board with voting and we are so grateful to all of them for helping us by voting.  The £3,000 contribution to our bathroom renovation project is a significant contribution. For lots of the children that come here access to a bath is really important. We work with them on their own self-care and washing routines, use the calming power of hot water to calm and relax anxious children. Many of our children enjoy sensory rich activities – water is one of the elements they really take to. Lots of the children come here for baths because they can’t have them at home – it’s too hard for their families getting a teenagerwho maybe wheelchair bound in and out of a bath. When we have our new bathroom many children can enjoy the warm soapy bubbles and some play time!'

Affinity Water supply water to South West London and the home counties, as well as running water related educational projects and community campaigns. Anna Jarmolinska-Nowak from Affinity Water on announcing the news said: 

‘We are pleased to have the chance to support Cherry Trees. We hope this support will help to improve the lives of families and children that live with disabilities. Affinity Water is a community-focused organisation serving local people and we want to be involved in projects which benefit the communities we serve.’