Pic: Helen Heaton and Christina Williams with staff and young people supported by Action for Children
Action for Children Cymru has received a donation of £18,000 from inspirational Welsh rowing team Merched y Môr, raised through their extraordinary Atlantic Ocean crossing.
The cheque was presented by team member Helen Heaton during a horse-riding activity for Action for Children young people at Marros Riding Centre, near Pendine, Carmarthenshire, giving the rowers an opportunity to see first-hand the difference their fundraising will make.
Merched y Môr completed the world’s toughest row across the Atlantic Ocean, raising funds for a range of charities close to the team’s hearts. Alongside Action for Children Cymru, the team has also supported organisations including the RNLI, Sea Trust Wales and Popham Kidney Support, helping create a lasting legacy from their remarkable challenge.
Helen Heaton, of Merched y Môr, has a close association with Action for Children. She said: “Crossing the Atlantic was an incredible adventure and one that tested us every day, both physically and mentally. During the toughest moments, we reminded ourselves of the charities and people we were rowing for, which gave us the motivation to keep going.
“I’m delighted to present this £18,000 donation as Action for Children Cymru is a charity I know very well and does amazing work. Seeing young people enjoying today’s horse-riding session has brought home exactly why we took on the challenge. We hope the money raised helps more children and young people access the support and opportunities they deserve.”
The donation will help Action for Children Cymru continue its work supporting children, young people and families facing challenges including poverty, disability, mental health issues and family breakdown.
Christina Williams, Service Coordinator of South Wales Blues Programme & Women and Girls Together, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Helen and the rest of the Merched y Môr team for this fantastic donation. To row across the Atlantic is an extraordinary achievement in itself, but to do so while raising funds for charities and communities is truly inspiring.
“The £18,000 donated to Action for Children Cymru will make a meaningful difference to the lives of the children and young people we support. Whether it’s helping fund activities that build confidence and resilience or providing practical support when families are facing difficult times, this generosity will have a lasting impact.”
The cheque presentation took place during a horse-riding session organised for the charity’s Women and Girls Pembrokeshire service at Marros Riding Centre, with the event providing a fitting opportunity to celebrate the team’s achievement and thank them for their support.
