Spontaneous Jet2holidays charity auction raises £5.6k for Reuben’s  Retreat

Jet2holidays raised £5,600 for Reuben’s Retreat after a spontaneous charity auction took place during its first non-retail travel agent summit.

 

The event attracted almost summit 200 delegates to Leeds.

 

The fundraising began when Aishling McLoughin from Iberostar offered a hotel stay to be auctioned. 

 

Jet2holidays’ Alan Cross stepped in to enhance the prize by adding Jet2.com flights. 

 

Other hotel partners in the room, 3HB Hotels and Constantinou Bros Hotels followed suit, each donating hotel stays which Jet2holidays again paired with flights.

 

The generosity of the travel community resulted in three holiday packages being auctioned for a total of £5,600. 

 

All proceeds will go directly to Reuben’s Retreat, which supports families with complexly poorly children, as well as families who have experienced child loss.

 

Jet2holidays trade operation manager Jade Evers said: "This generosity demonstrates what a fantastic community the travel industry really is, and we were overwhelmed by the kindness and energy in the room. 

 

"What started as a single donation quickly became a collective effort, and we’re so proud to have raised funds for such a meaningful cause. Reuben’s Retreat continues to inspire us all."

McLoughin said: "It was a privilege to be part of such a heartfelt initiative. We believe in supporting communities and making a positive impact wherever we can. 

 

“Seeing the industry come together so spontaneously for Reuben’s Retreat was truly special, and we’re delighted to have played a part in helping families who need it most."

 

Reuben’s Retreat founder Nicola Graham said: “It was such an unexpected yet welcome surprise when Jade rang us, we thought we had misheard her when she shared such a fabulous amount of monies raised. 

 

“Thank you to everyone involved. We look forward to putting it towards our #Oneinamillion campaign, as we build together to #CompleteTheRetreat #BrickbyBrick in support of the unique and precious families we are honoured and humbled to serve.”

 The winners of the charity auction were:

 

Sharon Urquhart – Aspire Travel
Donation: £2,100
Prize: Athena Beach Hotel

Brett Sanders – Over the Moon Escapes
Donation: £1,000
Prize: Iberostar Selection Fuerteventura Palace

Nathan Turner – N8events
Donation: £2,500
Prize: 3HB Guarana