Brighton business fundraising for homeless youths

Employees of Sussex manufacturer Paxton are creating awareness and raising money for the homeless charity; Clock Tower Sanctuary, by participating in a 53,709 mile around-the-world virtual exercise challenge.

Since the beginning of March, 107 Paxton employees have been walking, cycling, or running in their local area. Their combined distance travelled will take them virtually to each of the 33 countries Paxton have offices, or distribution channels, totalling 53,709 miles.

Paxton’s aim is to raise money for homeless young people in Sussex and create awareness about the important role local businesses can play in helping regional charities. All sponsorship money raised by the employees participating in the UK and Paxton’s international markets will be donated to the Clock Tower Sanctuary who have been helping 16-25-year-old homeless people since 1998.

The challenge started at Paxton’s headquarters based in Brighton. Currently they are on their way virtually to Pretoria in South Africa, having already travelled 21% of globe, with a total of 10,607 miles logged, raising £886.

Molly Prentice, Fundraising & Communications Officer for Clock Tower Sanctuary explains: “We receive no statutory funding, so we rely on support from local businesses like Paxton.

“There is a positive to this, as it allows us the freedom to listen to our young people and be reactive to what they need. However, it does mean that we are continually looking for innovative ways to fundraise and make enough money to meet the demand across Sussex”.

As well as providing support for local charities, companies undertaking fundraising initiatives like Paxton, can be of real benefit to their employees who are still working from home. They can help to boost productivity, inclusivity, and promote good health and well-being in what is still a challenging time.

Kate Hotson, Paxton’s Project & Events Manager explained: “It is important for us to support our local community, and Clock Tower Sanctuary is a very deserving charity due to their work with young homeless people in Sussex.

“The challenge is a great way for people to feel connected to each other, especially at this time when many companies cannot work together in their offices. We encourage all people to get outside, exercise and raise money for an amazing cause”.

You can help to support Paxton’s fundraising initiative on their website: www.paxton-access.com/paxton-around-the-world-challenge

Alongside Paxton’s fundraising efforts, Clock Tower Sanctuary are currently fundraising for their own challenge. Since the beginning of April, participants have 30 days to walk, run or cycle the 87 miles distance from London to Brighton. You can show your support and donate by following this link: https://www.justgiving.com/theclocktowersanctuary