Always on
This project successfully funded on 25th August 2025, you can still support them with a donation.
#SaveTheThames
London, Greater London, United Kingdom
£1,259
raised so far
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Aim
The Thames is drowning in pollution. If you walk, swim, row, sail, or love this river—act now. Donate today and help us fight for her future
Our Chief Exec. Laura Reineke will be swimming Catalina Channel, California on September 16/17 to raise funds for FoTT. This is the last in the triple crown of marathon swims, Laura completed the English Channel in 2023, and the circumnavigation of Manhattan Island in 2024.
"Swimming the Catalina Channel isn’t just another tick on my personal endurance list—it’s a way to shine a spotlight on something far bigger than myself. This 20-mile stretch of cold, dark, unpredictable ocean is one of the toughest swims in the world, but I’m taking it on to raise vital awareness and funds for Friends of the Thames and our campaigns to protect and restore our rivers and waterways.
Water connects everything—our health, our wildlife, our climate. Yet from California to the River Thames, these precious ecosystems are under threat from pollution, neglect, and short-term thinking. By swimming Catalina, I want to demonstrate what’s possible when you dig deep, refuse to give up, and work together for a cause that matters.
Every stroke I take will be for cleaner water, healthier rivers, and a future where our planet is safe and safeguarded for generations to come. Your support will help turn that vision into action—thank you for being part of it."
🎯 Purpose
Friends of the Thames campaign invites everyone who enjoys the River Thames—walkers, swimmers, rowers, boaters, spectators, anglers and riverside residents—to donate £5 (or as much as you can) to help protect and restore the river.
💥 The Message
The Thames is on the brink.
Pollution is worsening. Authorities are failing.
The people who love this river are stepping up.
Whether you swim in her, walk beside her, row on her, watch the regatta, or picnic on her banks—this river gives us joy, health, history, and identity. Now she needs us.
Donate any amount (over £5 please) either as a one-off, or every time you interact with the river, to help protect the Thames and show the government that the people care deeply and demand action.
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made