Express freight distribution expert Palletforce has donated £12,500 to the UK’s first respite holiday village for children with critical illness.
The money for Kids’ Village was raised at Palletforce’s Members General Meeting where representatives of the 125 companies in Palletforce’s nationwide express distribution network come together to share expertise and best practice.
A World Book Day event also raised £150 for book vouchers.
The cause was selected as the logistics firm’s chosen charity for 2025 and has a local link because its base in Wychnor, just north of Lichfield, is five miles away from Palletforce’s SuperHub distribution centre in Burton upon Trent.
Members of the Palletforce marketing team were able to see initial progress being made on the project – including the construction of the first road and management lodge – when they handed over the cheque.
Mark Tapper, Palletforce CEO, said: “The Palletforce colleagues who visited the site could see the dream starting to take shape, which is really exciting. They got a real sense of where every pound goes and the incredible project we’re helping to build. Every donation is helping create a place where families with critically ill children can make magical memories together.
“Kids’ Village is an amazing cause and the incredible work they do really inspired our member companies to do what they can to help. We know that the money is much needed and will really help to make a difference.
“We are supporting them throughout the year and will continue to do all that we can to help in the long term. Palletforce has a long history of working with local and national charities and with our Employee Champions we can take this to an even higher level and make a real difference in the communities we serve.”
Katrina Cooke, CEO of Kids’ Village, said: “To have had the support of Palletforce throughout the year has been brilliant.
“They are playing a huge role in helping us create a place where families affected by childhood illness can relax and make special memories together.
“We’ve really seen the enthusiasm of their staff, and we’d like to say a huge thank you to them and the wider member network for their incredible support.”
