Care home residents and team members in Maidstone have stepped up to raise funds for a charity close to their hearts.
Invicta Court on Gidd’s Pond Way, took part in a special sponsored walk, raising over £700 for Alzheimer’s Society.
The fundraiser saw residents, relatives and team members walk together as part of the Maidstone Mote Park Memory Walk, covering a combined total of 60km.
The funds will support Alzheimer’s Society’s mission to support those who are living with dementia as well as their loved ones. To say thank you, everyone received a gold medal and enjoyed a big round of applause as they crossed the finishing line.
For resident Valerie Banfield, 83, who is currently living with Alzheimer’s dementia, the day offered an opportunity to give something back to the charity. After working in a care home for 30 years, Valerie, known as Val, retired at the age of 80. Reflecting on the day, Val said: “I’m beyond proud to have taken part in this fundraising walk to help raise funds for such a worthy cause. I thoroughly enjoyed the walk, and it was made even better by the views across the lake – just brilliant!”
Sara Barbosa, Home Manager at Invicta Court, said: “We love a challenge here at Invicta Court – especially when it’s for a good cause!
“Walking is a fantastic activity for older people to enjoy – it’s accessible, gentle on the joints and encourages residents to get outside and enjoy nature more. Our sponsored walk was a fantastic way for everyone to stay active and have some fun, all while doing our bit to support a wonderful organisation which is incredibly important to everyone here at the home.
“On behalf of everyone here at Invicta Court, I’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who got involved or donated – we’re already looking forward to our next fundraising event!”