A preview screening of the Disney cartoon “Bolt” at the Phoenix Cinema in East Finchley on December 14 raised over £2,500 for Norwood, the UK's leading charity supporting children, families and adults, coping with disabilities and social disadvantage, in the Jewish community and beyond.
One hundred and sixty people attended the screening of “Bolt”, which is about a dog who thinks he is a superhero. A fancy dress competition added to the fun of the afternoon and many of the children dressed-up for the screening. The winner was a boy called Ben, who was dressed as Spartacus.
View more photos from the event
Before the film, Josie and Rachel Dawson made a short but moving appeal for children and families to give their support to Norwood. Their brother, Ben Dawson, has Cerebral Palsy and Norwood has provided support to the Dawson triplets and their parents, Susan and Robin, since the children were babies.
Initially, they attended the Rainbow group for young children with disabilities at Norwood’s Kennedy Leigh Children and Family Centre. Later, Ben began attending Unity, taking part in the play schemes and residential holidays where he enjoys a wide variety of activities and outings, together with children his own age. Ben also stays at Buckets & Spades Lodge, Norwood’s respite care centre in Finchley which provides 24 hour care for children with disabilities, giving his parents a break from caring.
Jeremy Callman, Chairman of Norwood’s Enterprise Committee, wore a Batman costume and introduced the Dawson sisters.
He said, “It was a really fun event, enjoyed by kids and grown-ups. It was made particularly special by Josie and Rachel’s speeches. The Enterprise Committee is delighted to be able to help raise funds to help Norwood to support Ben and many more children and adults with disabilities and their families every day.”
For further information, photos and interviews, please contact Michael Siva, Public Relations Officer at Norwood, on 020 8420 6900 or email pressoffice@norwood.org.uk.
