Press Release

December 2009

Taking on a mountainous challenge for Alabaré

Two members of staff from Alabaré will be taking on the challenge of a life time – climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – and they are calling on local firms and businesses in Trowbridge and Bristol for support.

Gemma Nokes from Trowbridge and Catherine Hicks from Bristol will be taking on this gruelling challenge to raise money for the The Well, a project that supports vulnerable women in Bristol.

The Well is a supported housing project for vulnerable women who are looking to leave the sex industry or are at risk of becoming involved in it.  The house provides 24 hour support to five women with a variety of complex needs in a safe and secure environment.  They can stay for up to two years but for many they are ready to move on to independent living much sooner.

The women often have a variety of complex needs and issues including drug addiction, mental health problems, low self esteem and anger management difficulties.  Staff will work with them to address these problems and make the necessary steps to successfully make the transition back to independent living. 

In 2010 Gemma and Catherine will be taking on the challenge of a lifetime of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.  But they need to raise a mountain of sponsorship before they can do it, and this is where they need help… 

They each need to raise £2000 to cover registration and tour costs.  They are calling on local businesses and firms for sponsorship to cover this cost.  In return company logos will be used on all publicity materials including clothing worn on the expedition and on the Charity Giving website, which is being used for online donations.

By covering this cost with business sponsorship, any further funds raised will go directly to The Well.

Speaking of why they chose to do this, Gemma and Catherine say "Although this climb is going to be a real challenge both physically and mentally, it is only a fraction of the challenges that the women at The Well face on a daily basis. We want to raise as much money as we can to ensure The Well can continue to support them in their journey to a life where they are valued in society and are no longer marginalised" 

If you or your business would like to help or know of someone who might, or to find out more information, contact Gemma Nokes on 07795 035380 or email g.nokes@alabare.co.uk

If you would like to make a personal donation, of which 100% will go to The Well, please visit our Charity Giving page at http://www.charitygiving.co.uk/gemmanokes4874