A CHARITY is hoping the community will be the driving force behind young people’s success.

Bolton-based Heartlift works with children and young people to ensure they reach their potential.

But the charity, based in Breightmet, has been left without any form of transport to take its children to activities — with some having been cancelled as a result.

Now a fundraising drive for £5,000 is underway to replace the old vehicle.

Vicky Hilton, mentor at Heartlift, said: “We feel very passionately about the fact that everyone can be a part of Heartlift, including young people with disabilities.

“Our staff and volunteers run a weekly nurturing group, after school activities, holiday camps and a Saturday club, each of which is suited to the individual’s needs.

“It allows the family to have some much needed respite and offers the children a safe environment where they experience inclusion and are empowered to reach their full potential.

“Without a form of transport these groups wouldn’t be able to go ahead.

“We collect the children from their homes, drive them to the planned activities and take them home afterwards.

“Sadly, the car we have been using for a number of years is no longer in working order which has already led to the cancellation of sessions and the possibility of our services no longer being available.

“We would like to purchase a new, or second-hand,vehicle to get us up and running and continue with the exciting and essential work that we love to do.”

She added that donations made would help to empower children to “live and love life”.

The charity works with all young people and their families, with youngsters having a chance to access many community based activities, including the local sports centres and recreation grounds.

With the summer holidays just round the corner, the charity is hoping the local community will be able to help make a difference and ensure young people are still able to access the many activities,

So far £140 has been raised.

Vicky said: “The comments have been so nice.”

To help the charity visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/heartlift-car? To find out more about the charity visit http://heartlift.co.uk/who-we-are/supporters.