THE Frank Hilton Organisation has launched the 10th Amazing Wheelbarrow Race, celebrating a decade of community-driven support for children with disabilities while warning that growing demand for services is placing increasing pressure on its resources.
Launching the event on Tuesday, CEO Sureni Perera said the fundraiser had grown into a national movement since its humble beginnings.
“What started as a late-night conversation has evolved into a powerful platform that brings together corporate leaders, volunteers, the diplomatic corps, and the wider public — all united in support of children and families who need it most,” Ms Perera said.
By launch day, 18 corporate teams had already confirmed participation in the annual race.
The organisation revealed that about 700 families accessed its services in 2025 alone, with more than 66 per cent of children supported being under the age of five.
During the same period, FHO delivered close to 7000 direct contact sessions, many in communities with limited access to specialised care.
Over the past three years, the organisation has recorded a 70 per cent increase in assessments and a 134 per cent rise in caseloads, with waiting lists continuing to grow.
Despite international recognition for service excellence, Ms Perera said funding remained a major challenge.
“FHO receives about $1.1million annually through the Ministry of Health, which covers only 63 per cent of operational requirements, leaving a 37 per cent funding gap that must be raised through initiatives such as the Wheelbarrow Race and corporate partnerships.”
She said the Hilton Home alone required more than $300,000 annually to operate, with Government funding covering only 10 per cent of costs.
