In a remarkable display of solidarity and determination, on August 27, 2023, the members of Surrey Fitness Hiking Club embarked on an epic adventure, hiking to the summit of Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the United Kingdom. But this hike was more than just a challenging outdoor expedition; it was a heartfelt mission to raise funds for a noble cause that touches the lives of underprivileged students in rural Sri Lanka.
The Surrey Fitness Hiking Club, known for their passion for both fitness and philanthropy, set their sights on the breathtaking heights of Ben Nevis to support the Sri Lankan Family Charity Foundation (SFC Foundation). Every step they took, every sweat-soaked moment and every ounce of determination was dedicated to transforming the lives of those in need.
The SFC Foundation, a registered charity, has a primary objective to alleviate poverty and advance education among the rural population of Sri Lanka. Their efforts extend to victims of the civil war and natural disasters, offering vital support in the form of basic food, medical assistance, and educational resources.
This isn’t the first time the Surrey Fitness Hiking Club has demonstrated their commitment to making a difference. Last year, they conquered Snowdon Mountain and raised funds that were donated to the Jaffna Teaching Hospital. The funds facilitated the purchase of essential medical equipment, including adult and fetal monitors. Additionally, the club initiated various livelihood projects, such as establishing local grocery shops, flour grinding machines, water pumps, agricultural fencing, and providing fishing nets to empower communities.
This mission wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and enthusiasm of the club members, including Andy Vytheeswaran, Sivam Sivapathasuntharam, Guhan Kumanan, Mala Kumanan, and many more, who willingly took on the challenge to make a difference.
The hike to Ben Nevis was not just about conquering peaks; it was about raising the bar of compassion and community spirit. Together, the Surrey Fitness Hiking Club and the SFC Foundation are writing a heartwarming story of hope, resilience, and solidarity, one step at a time.
