A CHARITY based in Leamington which has inspired over 500,000 children and their families to become healthier and happier is closing its doors.
Kids Run Free, a national children’s charity operating as Marathon Kids UK, has been operating since 2010, but a shortage in funding and the current difficult economic climate, has seen bosses make the “challenging decision” to close on May 1.
Co-Founder and chair of trustees Martine Verweij said: “We fought for survival during the pandemic, which included a company restructuring and a significant reduction in operating costs and expenses.
“During this period, the charity struggled to build upon its previous accomplishments and, unfortunately now finds itself facing the cost-of-living crisis. We then experienced difficulty accessing public funding, donations and private sponsorship. Therefore, we have no other option but to cease trading and operation.
“We have succeeded in so many ways over the years, and this does not take away from that. Although we cannot continue, we are very proud of what we have achieved. I want to thank everybody who has supported the charity and our mission over the years. Without your support, we could not have achieved our goals, including the activation of over half a million young people.”
She thanked all the charity’s ambassadors who had supported it by raising awareness and all the funders, partners and donors.
And she also expressed gratitude to all schools and parks leaders, including teachers and volunteers, whose support during difficult times was crucial to the Milverton Hill-based charity’s success.
Ms Verweij final thanks went to all the children and families
“We are tremendously proud of your achievements – you have been an inspiration to us all. To our Marathon Kids, we urge you never to stop moving and, when possible, be active as a family. We are proud to have instilled a love of being physically active and seen countless Marathon Kids prosper over the years.”
