I would like to start off by thanking my fellow committee members for their support in this my 19th annual treasurers report.
This year must be one of the most difficult times for the charity to raise funds for our outings and parties, due to the unprecedented times that we are going through. However, this did not stop us having our famous Mad Hatters party for over 600 special needs children at the Grosvenor House in January. Unfortunately we had to cancel our proposed outings to Southend and Chessington, but nevertheless we distributed special bags and pencil cases to over 1,000 children who were just starting school, so that each child had their own starter kit when they were at their new school.
Last year we had many appeals from worthy causes that we were delighted to agree to. We donated nearly £7,000 to deserving organisations, including a special hoist for disabled children at the Norwood Kennedy Leigh Centre. We also donated Christmas presents to the children of a taxi driver who unfortunately passed away at a very early age. We also bought for the Corbetts Tey School two interactive robots to help stimulate the special needs children there. The St. Barnabas appeal, where we supplied food and goodies to this very worthwhile cause which was delivered by committee members Wendy, Steve, and Sim. We also donated funds for a specially adapted trike for a disabled child which will give her some form of independence and enjoyment.
I would like to give special thanks to Russel Poluck and the Taxi Driver of the Year committee who once again made a very generous donation to the Fund. Also, Katie of the Green Hut in Russell Square for running a raffle on our behalf, and I would also like to thank the Lost Property Office for having one of our collecting boxes and raising a considerable amount of money for us.
A special mention to The Tin Plate Workers Alias Wire Workers livery company for their continued support and who are always there to see us off on our past visits to the seaside. I would also like to thank Sainsbury’s at Low Hall, Chingford for supplying the food for our Xmas party.
Over the years we have had great support from not only London’s famous and generous Taxi Drivers but also the many garages and eating establishments that carry our collecting boxes. Without all the aforementioned people we would be unable to carry out all the outings and appeals. So, a very big thank you from myself and the committee.
Finally, I would like to add that our overall expenses are one of the lowest of any registered charity, mainly because none of the committee receive any payment for their work or time. Something we are very proud of.
Once again, my thanks to Michael, our Chairman and the committee for their support and I hope that the coming year will get us back on track for more exciting outings and parties.
Gerry Dunn MBE
Hon. Treasurer to LTCFC