Local Fundraiser's Remarkable Journey Reaches £100,000 Milestone for Dogs Trust
A dedicated local fundraiser from Basildon has achieved an extraordinary milestone in her charitable journey, raising an incredible £100,000 over eight years for Dogs Trust Basildon through persistent community-focused efforts.
Eight Years of Dedicated Fundraising
Tammy Preston, who lives near the Dogs Trust Basildon rehoming centre, began her fundraising mission in 2016 by selling pre-loved items through Facebook. What started as a modest initiative has grown steadily over the years into a remarkable achievement that has made a significant difference to the charity's work.
Last month marked a particularly significant moment when Tammy presented her largest single donation to date – a cheque for £10,000 – bringing her total fundraising over eight years to the impressive £100,000 milestone. This substantial contribution continues to provide vital funds for medical treatment, food, shelter, and finding forever homes for dogs in need.
Finding Purpose Through Charity Work
Living with anxiety and unable to work, Tammy sought meaningful occupation that could make a real difference. Supporting Dogs Trust, a local charity close to her heart, provided the perfect opportunity to channel her energy into positive action for a cause she passionately believes in.
Known online as 'Tammy the Dogs Trust Lady', she maintains year-round fundraising activities through Facebook, regularly engaging with her local community. She encourages seasonal clear-outs of teddy bears, toys, and clothing, inviting people to donate their pre-loved items that she can then sell to give them a second life while raising funds for the charity.
Community Support and Personal Inspiration
The response from supporters has been overwhelmingly positive, with Tammy ensuring that 100% of funds raised go directly to Dogs Trust Basildon, typically through the Billericay Donation Page on Facebook.
Tammy Preston shared her thoughts on this achievement: "The support from the local community has honestly been amazing. Every donation, every item sold, and every pound raised goes straight towards helping dogs. I'm incredibly proud of how much has been raised already and the real, life-changing difference it has made."
She added: "Fundraising for Dogs Trust has given me something really positive to focus on, and I definitely don't plan to stop anytime soon."
Tammy fundraises alongside her dad, having previously shared the experience with her mum, who sadly passed away in 2024. Her love for dogs is shared with her own little Jackapoo (Jack Russell Terrier and Poodle cross) Tilly, who continues to inspire her daily efforts to help dogs in need.
Recognition from Dogs Trust
Lisa Cooper, Basildon Rehoming Centre manager, expressed her appreciation: "Raising over £100,000 is nothing short of extraordinary, and we cannot thank Tammy enough for her passion and commitment in helping Dogs Trust throughout the years. Every donation goes directly to providing our dogs with daily essentials, enrichment, medication, and providing them the very best life while they wait for their forever homes. Tammy's dedication makes a life-changing difference to our dogs."
As Tammy prepares to celebrate her ninth fundraising anniversary this August, her journey shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to demonstrate how individual dedication combined with community support can create substantial positive change for charitable causes.
