We are a group of friends who met through our involvement in NEPOMAK; a world wide organisation for young overseas Cypriots. Further info: https://nepomak.org/

The challenge involves climbing the three highest peaks in Wales: Mount Snowdon, Cadair Idris and Pen y Fan. In total, it is a 17 mile walk with a total ascent of 2334 metres. Our aim is to do this in less than 24 hours. Further info: https://www.threepeakschallenge.uk/welsh-three-peaks-challenge/

We are raising money for two great causes and all proceeds will be split evenly between the two:

1. Thalassemia International Federation - The Thalassaemia International Federation (TIF) is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation founded in 1986 by a small group of patients and parents in Cyprus, Greece, the UK, the USA and Italy. They raise money to raise awareness of the disease; which is common amongst Cypriots. They have also developed a new drug treatment and provide direct welfare and counselling services.

2. Wood Green Cypriot Community Centre which has been one of the cornerstones of the UK Cypriot community since it was founded in 1979. The Community Centre is a charitable organisation, that runs essential community services by generating its own income and relying on donations. The services it runs include a Luncheon Club that prepares affordable Cypriot-style meals every weekday; a ‘Meals-on-Wheels’ service for housebound Haringey residents who struggle to cook for themselves; and a day-care service for the disabled and elderly from Monday to Friday.

In addition to these essential services for the more vulnerable, the Community Centre is a place where people from all the communities of Cyprus come together to maintain and develop their Cypriot identity. There is also a ‘drop-in centre’ which works in a similar way to a traditional Cypriot kafeneion (café) where anyone may go and spend their time. It is a popular place for Cypriots to go during the day and meet their friends rather than staying at home. Every day many people can be found playing tavli (backgammon), talking and drinking traditional Cypriot coffee.

It originally funded all these services through its partnership with Haringey Council but the council has since stopped its funding. To continue providing these vital services the Community Centre is in urgent need of financial support.