More than £100,000 has now been been raised to support the devastated family of three-year-old toddler Noah Woods. Noah Woods disappeared on Tuesday afternoon (15 September) after being separated from a relative at a playground in Merriam Close in Brantham, Suffolk.
A huge search was launched to find the tot – with around 1,300 members of the pubic joining efforts. Suffolk police said Noah was non-verbal, partially deaf and had been undergoing an assessment for autism. His body was recovered from Decoy Pond in Brantham on Wednesday afternoon (16 September) and his death is not being treated as suspicious. But a JustGiving page organised by Good Dads Club, a community of fathers based in Colchester, Essex, has surpassed £104,000 including a donation from Ipswich Town footballer Leif Davis of £2,000.
Organisers said the money would help Noah’s family with expenses and allow them to take time away from work while they grieve.
Noah’s family have been told about the fundraiser and are said to be “incredibly grateful” for the support.
The fundraiser read: “In light of the news regarding three-year-old Noah Woods, Good Dads Club is calling on our community to give whatever they can to ease the overwhelming burden on his family during this heartbreaking time.
“While no amount of money can undo these life altering events, every single financial contribution will go directly toward helping Noah’s family’s expenses, navigate daily bills, and take the necessary time off work to grieve without the added strain of financial worry.
“Please consider donating today, no contribution is too small and share this campaign so we can surround Noah’s loved ones with the solidarity they desperately need.”
His father, Rhys Woods, previously paid tribute to his son in a post on Facebook. He wrote: “There are no words to describe the pain of this loss.
“We are all absolutely heartbroken.
“Noah was the sweetest and most innocent little boy, with nothing but love to give, and we are going to miss him so very much.”
Officers have reported there are still inquiries to complete before a file is sent to the coroner.