Local Charities Share Moonraker Funds

Two Taunton based charities are sharing a 15-thousand-pound grant from Taunton Vale Rotary.

The money represents the profits from last October’s Moonraker Challenge which saw over 300 walkers take part in the sponsored night orienteering event. Some teams took on the seven-mile route while others opted for the more arduous 15-mile challenge which included some steep climbs on the Blackdown Hills.

One of the charities receiving the funding is ARC  inspire which provides 16 properties in Taunton and beyond, housing 168 homeless people.  As well as offering accommodation Arc aims to ensure no-one has to spend more than one night homeless, with an Outreach Team working hard to support rough sleepers, getting them into accommodation as quickly as possible.

ARC also has a special project for supporting military veterans, many of whom have complex needs.

Sam Parr receiving a cheque on behalf of ARC <br>

Paul Richards, CEO at ARC says: “This is a huge sum of money and we are so delighted to have been selected to receive your support. I know this is only made possible by the hard work of many many people.  Rest assured we will put it to good use in supporting our clients to find a better place”.

Debbie Dyer and Kirsty Roach of the Escape Group with President Kathryn Robinson-Burge

The second charity is the Escape Support Group which provides help for families in Somerset raising children who have disabilities or other additional needs.  They furnish a wide range of fun activities, days out and occasional short break holidays.  Their regular events aim to boost morale, increase confidence and improve social skills as well as develop & strengthen friendships.  Escape’s aim is to support whole families, not just the children with special needs. The 2025 Moonraker Challenge will be held on Saturday 11th October.  Entries will open mid-summer.