With the Harrison Foundation’s support, the Sunshine Fund will now be able to purchase much-needed items including a Theraplay Tracker Trike, sensory lighting, climbing play frames, Tiny Trax powerchairs, and junior wheelchairs. This equipment will go directly to local children who face daily challenges due to illness, disability, or developmental conditions, helping them gain independence, improve their mobility, and enhance their quality of life.
The Sunshine Fund, based in Newcastle upon Tyne, works tirelessly to support families across the North East who are caring for children with additional needs. The charity funds equipment that cannot be provided by the NHS or other statutory bodies—often items that families simply cannot afford. Whether it’s a wheelchair that allows a child to attend school, a powerchair to explore their environment, or sensory lights that create a calming space for a child with autism, the impact of this equipment cannot be overstated.
Daniel Harrison, trustee of the Harrison Foundation, said the donation reflects the Foundation’s continued commitment to creating positive and lasting change in communities:“We have a long history of supporting the Sunshine Fund and we’re delighted to help them continue their incredible work once again. Their dedication to improving the lives of children with disabilities in our region is truly inspiring. At the Harrison Foundation, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. By funding this specialist equipment, we hope to give children greater independence, comfort, and opportunities to enjoy life like any other child. It’s a privilege to be able to help make that happen.”
The funding comes at a crucial time, as demand for support from the Sunshine Fund continues to rise. With many families still facing long NHS waiting lists and limited resources, the charity is seeing more applications than ever for life-changing equipment. This donation from the Harrison Foundation will enable them to meet some of that demand and help families who may otherwise go without.
David Wilson, Head of the Sunshine Fund, expressed his gratitude for the support:
“We are incredibly grateful to the Harrison Foundation for this generous donation. These funds will allow us to purchase a wide range of equipment that will make a real and lasting difference to the children we support. For many families, this equipment is not a luxury—it’s essential. From helping a child move independently with a powerchair to providing a sensory space that brings calm and comfort, the impact is profound. This kind of support shows just how much we can achieve when organisations come together with a shared commitment to inclusion and opportunity.”
The donation will fund equipment for several individual children, each with their own unique needs and stories. Whether it’s a climbing frame that helps build confidence and motor skills, or a Theraplay trike that provides both fun and physiotherapy, the equipment funded by this donation will offer immediate and long-term benefits.
At the Harrison Foundation, we are committed to supporting initiatives that remove barriers and promote equality of opportunity. This partnership with the Sunshine Fund is a shining example of how targeted support can help children live more fulfilling, independent lives.