International donkey charity, Safe Haven for Donkeys, is celebrating its 25th anniversary by calling upon animal lovers to complete 25 miles and raise vital funds to improve the lives of working and abandoned donkeys across Israel, Gaza and Egypt.
The charity’s ‘25 miles for 25 years’ challenge invites supporters to walk, run, cycle or swim a total of 25 miles between 25 September and 31 October 2025. The distance can be completed in one go or in sections, either alone or with friends.
Donkeys have become a primary method of transporting people in Gaza because, as well as the roads being ruined, fuel is scarce and many cars, vans and trucks have been damaged during the war.
Donkeys are being found dehydrated, malnourished and often with wounds from missile attacks.
‘Making a real difference’
“I’m proud to be a patron of Safe Haven for Donkeys, a charity that for 25 years has been making a real difference to the lives of donkeys in desperate need,” said the charity’s Patron, Downton Abbey and After Life actor Peter Egan.
“The 25 Miles for 25 Years challenge is a fun and inclusive way for all of us — whether we’re walking with a donkey, a dog, or just a good pair of shoes — to help raise vital funds for this life-changing work.
“Every mile we complete brings us one step closer to giving these animals the care, respect and kindness they deserve.”
UK support
Members of the Northern Region of the Donkey Breed Society, who are supporting the initiative nationally, completed their flagship walk last weekend at Rivington Country Park.
Supporters from Cheshire, Cumbria and Yorkshire — and even the Scottish Borders — descended on the Lancashire venue to walk five miles and start their fundraising challenge.
Some members, like five-year-old Anna, even brought their own donkeys along for the walk and picnic. “Our donkeys are very fit and love going on picnic rides,” said Anna.
Free to participate
There is no registration fee to take part in the challenge. Supporters are asked to set up a JustGiving page to log their miles and fundraising and share their challenge with friends and family. Those raising £50 or more will receive a commemorative medal with optional t-shirts also available.
“As someone who has seen first-hand the challenges donkeys face overseas through my work with Safe Haven, and the passion and care shown by owners here in the UK through my involvement with the Donkey Breed Society, I think this challenge is a brilliant way of bringing those worlds together,” said Anna Harrison, veterinary advisor to Safe Haven for Donkeys and honorary vet at the Donkey Breed Society.
“Every mile completed will help give donkeys the chance of a better life.”
The charity’s work
The charity, which was set up in Haywards Heath in 2000, runs a donkey sanctuary near the Israeli town of Netanya, a clinic in the Palestinian city of Nablus, a rescue centre in Arrana and three mobile clinics in Hebron, Jenin and the Jordan Valley.
It treats up to 200 working donkeys, mules and horses every week.
The team regularly visits towns and villages where they offer free veterinary care, advise on tooth and hoof care, harnessing and nutrition as well as providing education and support for the owners.
Make a donation and find out more about the challenge here.
