2023 will be the 75th anniversary of the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, a remarkable milestone for a small, niche charity run and organised by enthusiastic volunteers.
Frances Wyhowska, Vice President of Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, shares how important next year will be.
“Founded by three London cab drivers in 1948 whilst sitting in the Bedford Arms in Fulham, no one could have foreseen that it would develop into such a key part of many veterans’ and cab drivers’ lives. It would have been beyond anyone’s imaginings that drivers would be taking veterans abroad to the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Germany for acts of commemoration. The instigators would have been proud to know how highly valued the charity has become, not only by the veterans, but other larger charities such as the Royal Naval and Royal Marines Charity, the Soldiers’ Charity, (formerly the Army Benevolent Fund), the RAF Benevolent Fund, Blind Veterans UK and many many more.
“The ultimate accolade for all those involved was receiving the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2021, an award approved by Her Majesty and the equivalent of the MBE for charities. Our charity relies heavily on donations and we plan to mark our 75th anniversary with events for veterans of all ages throughout 2023.
“We are always grateful for the support we receive from the cab trade and in this important year we are using 75 as the theme of a huge fundraising drive to try and raise £75,000 in our anniversary year.
“In the 75 for 75 fundraising campaign, we are asking drivers to donate £7.50, garages and other support services £75, apps and trade orgs £750, and large cab-related businesses, including TfL and LEVC £7,500. Every donor who wishes will be listed on a roll of honour on our website.
“We do hope that you will support us in our special anniversary year.”