Who we have helped in 2019!

In 2019, with your support, we were able to help over 57,681 children across Greater Manchester.

Author: Sophie DaviesPublished 21st Aug 2019
Last updated 15th May 2020

Because of the kindness of our supporters we have helped to change the lives of thousands of disabled and disadvantaged children in Greater Manchester so far this year.

Here are some of their stories

The Honeypot Children's Charity works to enhance the lives of young carers and vulnerable children aged 5-12 years by providing residential respite breaks and ongoing outreach support. Cash for Kids funded a respite break for 12 young carers living in Greater Manchester to take time away from their demanding and stressful responsibilities at home and provide a safe, nurturing environment where they can develop their full potential and just be children.

Rays of Sunshine children's charity brightens the lives of seriously ill young people aged 3-18 and their families across the UK by granting wishes and providing ongoing support in hospital and within the community. Cash for Kids were able to fund their annual Manchester Children's Party. This allows over 200 families to put their illnesses on hold and enjoy a festive afternoon during a poignant time of the year - creating lasting memories.

Amy Rose has severe quadriplegic cerebral palsy, epilepsy and is 100% tube fed via a GJ button. She also has a severe movement disorder which manifests itself in constant unpredictable sudden movements. She is non-verbal, non-mobile and spends a lot of time in hospital requiring 24 hour care. Amy's family have a lot of trouble keeping her safe, especially during the night. Cash for Kids were able to fund a specialised bed which will prevent sever injuries and promote independant play. The bed has enabled Amy's family to finally relax knowing that their daughter is safe.

Marnie Mcwilliam is an intelligent, loving and happy 16 month old girl. She was diagnosed with right sided hemiplegia as a baby which means she can't use her right side at all. Unfortunately the physoptherapy that Marnie needs costs £5,000 per course and is unavailable on the NHS. Cash for Kids were able to fund a course of constricted induced movement therapy which will allow Marnie to have the chance to learn how to use her right side and be able to operate fully independently for the first time in her life.

The RockinR Gaming Charity was founded by Reece Miree's family after losing their 11 year son to a brain tumour in 2018. During his short fight with cancer Reece found comfort in being able to interact with his friends online during lengthy hospital stays. Cash for Kids have funded a mobile gaming unit into The Royal Manchester Children's Hospital to enhance the lives of children who are immobile or have limited access to activities whilst being treated at hospital.

Walthew House Youth Club support children with sight or hearing loss who have difficulty accessing mainstream social groups and activities. Cash for Kids funded a fully accessible, fun and exciting adventure weekend for members of the youth club. Activities included paddle boarding, tree climbing, toasting marshmallows and a movie night. Not only do the children get to take part in a wide range of activities, they learn essential skills that will help them as they grow into adulthood.

Everyone Can runs gaming sessions for groups of disabled children. They create an inclusive, sociable and non-judgmental environment for the children and their families. Cash for Kids funded a wheelchair accessible driving simulator, giving them an experience they are unable to achieve in 'real life'. It gives them a sense of inclusion, improves their dexterity, and has also helped physically able children with learning disabilities who struggle to socialise and play with others. The machine allows two children to play at the same time, encouraging them to socialise and engage with one another. One child who plays on it regularly is usually very anxious and will only play with a select few staff/volunteers loves the arcade machine so much he will happily sit and play with other children that he doesn't know.

Archie is a happy, loveable little boy who suffers with a rare genetic syndrome called Angelman. He has sever learning disabilities, is non-verbal and has absences which may lead to seizures. He has severe insomnia and will wander the house at night, disturbing his sister, trying to eat edible and non-edible items and turning taps on. Cash for Kids funded a specialist bed for Archie to keep him safe at night. The UrZone bed has improved not only his quality of life, but the whole family's too. It promotes a healthier sleeping pattern which will in turn help him to focus at school as well as improve his behaviour and safety overall.

Maggie's Oldham offers a unique programme of social, psychological and practical support for people with cancer and their loved ones in Greater Manchester. Their support is free and available to everyone who needs it. Cash for Kids has funded three kid's days. These days are for children whose parent, grandparent, carer or close family relative is going through cancer treatment and provide an informal, fun environment for them to get answers to their questions.