7-year-old hiker conquers Wales' tallest peak to help homeless through Salvation Army

At just seven years old, River from Trowbridge has proven that age is no barrier to making a difference. Earlier this month, the determined young hiker summited Mount Snowdon, Wales’ tallest peak, raising an incredible £500 for The Salvation Army’s homelessness services—smashing his original £50 target.  

River was motivated to hike and fundraise for the Salvation Army after a deeply personal connection with the organisation. He felt immense pride when the school choir he sings in was invited to sing with the Salvation Army band last year for Remembrance Day in the town park—an experience that left him honoured to contribute to something meaningful.  

Witnessing homelessness in London further spurred his desire to help, leading him to research charities with his mother; The Salvation Army stood out not only for their impactful work but also because of his own positive experience with them.  

River said: “I wanted them to have help and somewhere safe to sleep.”  

His mother, Becky, added: “River didn’t like the thought of people without a bed or somewhere warm. He’s so excited to know the money he’s raised will help people in need.”   

Snowdon is a mountain in Snowdonia in North Wales. It has an elevation of 1,085 metres above sea level, which makes it both the highest mountain in Wales and the highest in the British Isles south of the Scottish Highlands.  

Choosing the challenging Miner’s Track ascent and Pyg Track descent, River powered through fatigue with encouragement from fellow hikers, family, and—crucially—KitKats. Upon reaching the summit, he threw his arms in the air, shouting, “It’s crazy, I’m at the top of Snowdon!”   

Last year, River climbed Pen y Fan, South Wales’ highest peak, but Snowdon marked his first charity challenge. His determination has already sparked plans for future fundraisers, including conquering Ben Nevis and a swimming challenge.   

He said, “It feels GREAT to help others.”  

Becky reflected: “This experience has shown River that worthwhile things can be hard, but pushing through is rewarding. No matter how young you are, you can achieve amazing things.”   

River’s message to other children? “You don’t have to climb a mountain—bake, bike, or swim! Just go for it. You’ll feel happy knowing you’ve helped others.”   

Donations to River’s fundraiser can still be made via his Just Giving page: Becky Hill is fundraising for The Salvation Army. 

The Salvation Army supports thousands of people a year in the UK who have become homeless. Its homelessness support ranges from rough sleeper drop-in facilities at some of the churches to long-term temporary accommodation at hostels, called Lifehouses, which provide specialist help with mental health and addiction. 

The Church and charity’s officers and volunteers provide hot food, blankets, first aid and a friendly face to the cold, hungry and lonely people forced to live on the streets. To learn more about The Salvation Army’s homelessness services visit their website Homelessness | The Salvation Army.