Here at ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, we are incredibly grateful to our corporate partners who dedicate their time, talent and creativity to ensuring we remain able to be there for soldiers, for life.
Back in 2017, horticulture specialists Vitax Limited pledged their support for our ‘Every Soldier – Past, Present and Future’ campaign, launched to commemorate the end of World War One. As part of their fundraising drive, Vitax pledged to donate 20p for every 2.5kg special pack of Q4 fertiliser. Over the past 12 months, these specially designed packs have taken pride of place on garden centre shelves across the country, raising over £10,000 for soldiers, veterans and their families in times of need.
Vitax presented the cheque at a special event at the Cenotaph in Whitehall. It seemed fitting that, following the presentation, the cheque was received in front of the statue of ‘Monty’ – Field Marshal Viscount Montgomery of Alamein – who launched our first fundraising campaign in 1946.
Paul Gooding, Chairman of Vitax, said: “This is the first time we have partnered with a charity outside the horticulture sector or used a product as a fundraising tool, but the response and funds raised have been phenomenal. This year marks the centenary of the First World War which serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices many have made, both past and present. The work of The Soldiers’ Charity is so important and supporting veterans who fought selflessly for others is essential. Q4 is one of our most popular products and the garden centres have been very supportive. Raising awareness of the charity and its work is an important element of our partnership, as well as generating funds which have passed the £10,000 mark. This is a fantastic achievement and will help The Soldiers’ Charity provide further support where needed.”
Receiving the cheque on behalf of the charity, Kate Billingham Wilson, Head of Partnerships for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, says: “We cannot thank Vitax enough for their support. The funds they have raised are vital to ensuring we can continue to make a difference at a critical point in peoples’ lives.”