We caught up with Jenny Jones, Head of Fundraising and Income Generation, Leeds Children’s Charity at Lineham Farm. Jenny told us all about summer at Lineham, and the fun adventures we’ve had. From camping trips to picnics, gardening, nature walks, and so much more in between! Summer is a special time at Lineham Farm, where lots of children who otherwise wouldn’t get a holiday or a trip away can visit and experience summer as it should be.
Jenny reflects on summer at Lineham Farm
Summer is a season that embodies joy, warmth, laughter, and connection. There’s something magical about those long, sun-drenched days (despite this year’s terrible weather!) that invites freedom and adventure. The sun lifts spirits, creating a natural energy that encourages outdoor fun and togetherness.
But it’s important to recognise that not everyone gets to experience this summer magic. For many, summer comes with many struggles. Sadly, not every child enjoys a full childhood or has access to the opportunities they need to thrive and enjoy life as it should be.
It’s important to be mindful of those around us who may not be able to enjoy the same experiences as us. Be it a summer holiday, time outside in nature, quality time with family and friends, or the basic need for a safe and comfortable home.
Where we can, we must come together to support those facing challenges. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we’re making a real difference in children’s lives, creating magical memories to last a lifetime.
Adventures outdoors, in nature
At Lineham Farm, our work during the summer brings that much-needed magic to children across the city. Alongside other incredible organisations, we provide vulnerable children with the experiences they deserve – adventure, fun, friendship, and play.
It’s been a jam-packed summer at the farm! Children have learned to ride bikes, experienced climbing for the first time, fed and cared for animals, and most importantly, enjoyed respite, adventure, and freedom in the beautiful surroundings of Lineham Farm.
A standout highlight was our Teddy Bear’s Picnic – an unforgettable day filled with games, crafts, friendships, and laughter.
Lots of brilliant businesses volunteered their time
We’ve been visited by lots of lovely business supporters who’ve been getting stuck into improvements on the farm, including Rosemont Pharmaceuticals, Zurich Insurance, Abbott, Right Fuel Card, Solera Holdings, Enterprise, DLA-Piper, Trinxa, Lexis Nexis Risk Solutions, WSP, and many more!
Our Challenge Champions aimed high
Plenty of other supporters have been getting involved in fundraising activities, such as sponsored walks, bucket collections, and mammoth cycle challenges – special shout to all our Challenge Champions, including Crossroads Truck & Bus, AYKO, Mills and Reeve, Dream Big Digital, Arma Litigation. A heartfelt thank you to Elliot James Bransby, Memorial Football Match for all the dedication and fundraising efforts.
We even had a charity golf tournament at Sand Moor Golf Club, attended by Rosemont Pharmaceuticals, Tradeway Shipping, The Ardonagh Group, and Thomas Coombs: The Yorkshire Accountants.
The Great Leeds Walk
Finally, we had our first ever Great Leeds Walk, where a fantastic group of supporters took on the challenge of up to a 26 mile walk around Leeds, raising over £16,000! The day was enjoyed by all, despite some aching calves, and we can’t wait to get going on the second annual edition.
Looking ahead to our exciting autumn and winter activities
This year, we’re introducing our Pumpkin Festival – a day filled with autumnal, Halloween festivities. Lineham Farm is usually a closed site, reserved for the children who visit us, but we’re thrilled to welcome the public to join us on this day to explore the farm and learn more about the work we do here.
We’re also gearing up for Christmas festivities, from a magical Santa’s grotto to delivering thousands of gifts to children across the city. Plus, we have a special Christmas weekend planned for some very deserving children.
This year, we’re excited to once again participate in the Big Give Christmas Challenge. From December 3rd to 10th, every donation you make will be doubled, thanks to our incredible pledge givers. Help us raise £5,000 during this week, and it will turn into a fantastic £10,000!
Take a look at our events section
Check out our upcoming events to see how you can get involved. It’s an inspiring time for the charity as we continue to provide the best possible support to disadvantaged children in our city, and we’re deeply grateful to everyone who plays a part in this special journey.
Charity events at Lineham Farm
On a personal note, it’s hard to capture the magic of Lineham Farm in words—seeing truly is believing. The joy and freedom experienced by the children and the smiles from parents and carers are incredibly rewarding. These moments are the essence of childhood – precious opportunities that we should never take for granted. Witnessing this first hand fuels my drive and enthusiasm to keep driving our important work.