READING Buses has announced that it has raised a record-breaking amount of money for its charity of the year, the Royal Berks Charity.
Last Monday, January 13, Reading Buses held its donation ceremony at its depot in Great Knollys Street, marking the culmination of its year-long partnership with the charity.
At the event, they unveiled a cheque for £20,361.68 to be donated to the charity, raised through a number efforts and initiatives throughout last year.
It was the second year in a row that Reading Buses had raised funds for the Royal Berks Charity, bringing their total raised for the charity to more than £32,100.
The Royal Berks Charity supports the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust, including its sites at West Berks Community Hospital, Bracknell Healthspace, Dingley Children’s Centre, and Prince Charles Eye Unit.
Through its work, the charity helps to provide new equipment, research, staff training, and improvements to patient environments, funded by donations.
At the event, Robert Williams, Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer, said that the funds had been raised: “This ranged from cakes sales to charity walks, the main fundraiser was the company’s annual family Open Day in June.
“The team at the Royal Berks Charity do a fantastic job for a very worthy cause that is relevant to everybody.
“We are pleased that our extended two-year partnership broke so many records, including the highest amount raised at an Open Day and the most money raised overall.”
He added: “Our Finance and IT Team walked the length of the purple 17 route, in appropriately purple costumes, raising a very impressive amount.
“For other fundraising, one of our finance team, Sharmila Perera and her mother created artwork to be displayed at the hospital and sold to raise funds, and driver trainer Stuart Kirby and family helped organise cake sales.
“There were also raffles at our annual awards night and at Christmas.”
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Speaking of the Royal Berks Charity-branded bus in the fleet, he explained: “It is such a huge advert for the charity and really is a beacon around the town. It helps to raise awareness for the charity – and they helped by designing such a striking livery.”
Jo Warrior of The Royal Berks Charity: “The incredible funds raised by the dedicated and generous team at Reading Buses are a true testament to their enthusiasm and commitment to our cause.
“Thanks to last year’s fundraising we were able to buy a special piece of equipment to help young patients with their breathing. This year, we plan to purchase a new incubator for our special care baby unit.
“Incubators provide a safe, controlled environment for babies born too soon or who are facing serious health challenges – offering the warmth, protection and specialised care they need to survive and thrive during those critical early days.
“The impact of Reading Buses’ support will continue long after our partnership ends. On behalf of the charity, and those whose lives you’ve touched, thank you.”
More information about the Royal Berks Charity is available via royalberkscharity.co.uk
