Gesher fundraiser surpasses £590k as more than 2000 people donate
SEND school founders praise 'outpouring of generosity', saying ''this campaign has shown what can be achieved when we unite behind a shared vision and commitment'
The 36-hour crowdfunding campaign for special needs school Gesher has raised more than £590,000 for essential works – well above the initial £400,000 target – with the school’s founders praising the “truly humbling generosity”.
Monies raised between 19th and 20th October will support efforts to complete some classrooms and rehouse a life skills room.
Gesher is the only Jewish primary and secondary school in the UK dedicated to children with mild to moderate special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Down’s syndrome.
With specialist teachers and therapists and a deeply nurturing approach, the school has earned three consecutive ‘Outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted and is recognised globally as a model of best practice.
Last week, co-founders Ali Durban and Sarah Sultman told Jewish News that “the fundraiser is really important to us, because we believe very passionately that the places and the spaces that our children need to learn are as important as what they’re learning and how they’re learning.”
Speaking to Jewish News after the fundraiser, Durban and Sultman said: “The outpouring of generosity and support from parents, families and the wider community has been truly humbling and stands as a testament to how valued Gesher’s children are within our community.
“This campaign has shown what can be achieved when we unite behind a shared vision and commitment. The kindness and generosity is an investment in our children’s futures and will help ensure that Gesher’s children and young people continue to thrive, both within and far beyond the school gates.
“We thank all our supporters who are part of the Gesher family for standing with us and for believing in the potential of every child.”
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