SALISBURY charity Gurkha Welfare Trust (GWT) will be auctioning teddy bears to raise money for Nepali veterans.

Charities took a hit over the last few years as they were unable to host fundraising events due to Covid-19, but GWT is finding unique ways to support Ghurka veterans and their families.

GWT supporters have been hard at work dressing adorable teddy bears in Gurkha or Nepali themed outfits ready for their first teddy bear auction. 

Helen Read, community fundraising officer for GWT, said: “It has been very difficult these last couple of years to raise money for our work in Nepal.

“With all the lockdowns and restrictions, it has just not been possible for people to hold tea parties and garden galas like they have in previous years.”

Dhanbahadur Limbu is a Gurkha veteran who served in the 10th Gurkha Rifles, he was made redundant from the army and wasn’t eligible for an army pension.

Salisbury Journal: Dhanbahadur Limbu, pictured in front of his new earthquake-resilient home, built by GWT after his previous home was destroyed by fire.Dhanbahadur Limbu, pictured in front of his new earthquake-resilient home, built by GWT after his previous home was destroyed by fire.

After surviving for years on subsistence farming and jobs cutting wood, he applied to the GWT which now pays him £87 a month pension to allow him to buy essentials.

Operating 19 area welfare centres, GWT helps Gurkha veterans, families, and communities in Nepal by providing financial, medical and community aid.

The charity also offers advice and support to thousands of retired Gurkhas who choose to settle in the UK.

Helen appreciates the response she’s had from supporters, she added: “Thankfully our supporters are amazing and understand that the money they raise is essential to support Gurkha veterans and their families in Nepal.

“As a result, I was so delighted when so many chose to support us through our teddy bear auction!”

Salisbury Journal: Bidding starts at £20 and bidders can go up in increments of £1.Bidding starts at £20 and bidders can go up in increments of £1.

 

There are a variety of bears on offer, each meticulously decorated - from female bears in beautiful saris to bears in traditional Nepali dress with matching Topi hat.

There is a Gurkha recruit bear carrying a Doko basket and others bearing the famous crossed kukris symbol.

Nineteen bears are up for auction in total and they can be bid on from Monday, May 16 on the auction website. 

All of the money raised will help support Gurkha veterans, families and communities in Nepal.

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