Appeal for Donations for 50th Humanitarian Mission
Scheduled Departure October 2024
Veteran Humanitarian Set to Deliver Much-Needed Ambulance to Ukraine
Harrogate, UK – 30 July 2024 – Charles John Shackleton, MBE, an 85-year-old veteran humanitarian from Harrogate, North Yorkshire has embarked on 49 self-funded missions over 30 years, delivering aid to war-torn regions such as Romania, Kosovo, and Afghanistan at considerable financial cost to himself. He was recently recognized in The King’s Birthday Honours List for his services to fundraising and the provision of humanitarian aid. At 85, Shackleton seeks financial support for his upcoming 50th mission after which he may retire. This will also be his 3rd journey to Kiev, Ukraine in recent years. The goal is to raise £30,000, aiming to depart in early October 2024. His previous missions have been almost all self-funded and have brought hope and relief to countless lives across Eastern Europe and beyond. As this is his 50th and potentially last mission John and his team hope to raise this money to take some of the financial burden from John.
John Shackleton: A Lifetime of Service
Despite recovering from a heart attack last year, Shackleton’s unwavering resolve remains strong. “Every mission is a challenge, but the support we bring is vital. It’s a risk I’m willing to take for those in desperate need,” Shackleton stated.
Shackleton’s dedication to humanitarian work is rooted in his extensive background. He served 10 years in the RAF, including three years as a mountaineer and seven years on a Bomb Disposal Squad. After his military service, he turned his hand to various endeavors, eventually finding his passion in property renovation. He funds his missions through a mix of public speaking engagements, chopping and selling wood, and offering rubbish removal services.
Call to Action
To ensure the success of this mission, Shackleton and his supporters are seeking to raise £30,000. The funds will cover the following expenses, which include 4 co-drivers:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 2 x 4×4 Ford Ranger Pick Up Trucks | £15,990 (recently purchased) |
| Fuel | £1000 |
| Insurance | £100 |
| Vehicle Tax (1 month x 2 vehicles) | £58 |
| Tolls (Ferry/Train/Toll Roads) | £500 – £800 |
| Return Transport for 5 People* | £1000 |
| Basic Accommodation (5 Persons)* | £1000 |
| Meals (5 Persons)* | £400 |
| Documentation and Notary Fees (May not be required) | £1000 |
If additional funds were to be raised, these would go towards extra supplies such as wheelchairs and medical equipment.
*John and the co-drivers will be self-funding their own accommodation, meals, and return transport. These costs will only be supported from the donated funds if the total donations exceed the costs of the vehicles and other essential travel expenses.
100% of Funds Support the Mission
John Shackleton, his co-drivers, and supporters are providing their services on a voluntary basis. This means that 100% of all funds raised will go directly towards the purchase of the ambulance and other medical equipment, with only a minimal amount reserved to cover basic expenses for travel to and from Ukraine. John will cover any additional costs personally to ensure the mission’s success.
By donating to this cause, almost 100% of your contribution will reach its intended recipients or be directly related to the costs of delivering the ambulance. In contrast, larger charities can range from 50% to 90% in the percentage of funds that reach the beneficiaries. This means your support has a much greater impact here, ensuring that every pound, dollar or crypto donation makes a significant difference.
Commitment to Transparency
We are committed to ensuring complete transparency in all our operations. All donations will be used as outlined, and detailed receipts and purchase records will be made available on this website. We believe in accountability and will provide regular updates on how every penny is spent to maintain your trust and support.
Fundraising and Expenses Progress
Total Amounts
Total Amount Spent: £16,148
Total Amount Raised: £1,732
Remaining Balance Needed: £14,416
Expenses Breakdown
Donations Breakdown
Expenses Breakdown
- Vehicle Costs: £15,990
- Vehicle Tax: £58.63
- Insurance: £100
- Total Expenses: £16,148.63
Donations Breakdown
- JustGiving Donations: £732
- Co-Driver Donation: £1,000
- Total Donations: £1,732