I have chosen to support PACTNE as I have realised as I have grown up just how privileged I am to have a supportive family and friends network !
My family has adopted and fostered for almost fifteen years and we have seen almost fifty children come and go, some back with their birth families, some adopted to new families, and more recently four stay with us forever.
Throughout this time, and from speaking to my parents and other people involved in fostering, adoption, social work and counselling about their experiences, it became apparent that many of these families were in crisis, with no support, no positive role models and generally just having a hard time.
PACTNE is a new charity set up very close to home (literally) and aims to provide supported accommodation for vulnerable families. The organisation offers comfortable family homes and support includes parenting training, counselling, advice and guidance, and recreational and occupational activities.
PACTNE is open to families who are made vulnerable for a host of reasons which include mental health challenges, physical disabilities, learning difficulties, homelessness, domestic violence and recovery from life controlling issues and addictions.
I am climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to challenge myself and my preconceptions and I am sure it will be a once in a lifetime experience that I am told will be character building!
The trip is self-funded so all monies raised will go to the charity.
I am doing the Kilimanjaro challenge with a group of 22 people through Elite:Stockton, where I first was a member and now work as a fitness trainer and I am looking forward to the next chapter of the journey.
Thank you for taking the time to read this short overview, your support is appreciated.
Matthew
