Generous shop customers have clubbed together and raised nearly £10,000 to help fund days out and activities for siblings supported by East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The charity’s six-week Forging Friendships retail donation campaign was rolled out across its 57 shops in Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk.
When paying at the till, customers were encouraged to make an extra contribution of 25p, helping fund dedicated sibling days for bereaved youngsters and those who have brothers or sisters receiving care.
The target was to raise £8,500 – roughly £26 a week at every EACH shop – which would have been enough to pay for a sibling day at all three of the charity’s hospices, at Milton, near Cambridge, The Nook, near Norwich, and The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
Instead, generous customers raised a magnificent total of £9,948.
“It’s a fantastic amount of money, and we couldn’t be more grateful,” said Genine Woodcock, EACH’s Retail Central Support Manager.
“Thanks to our amazing customers, we smashed our target, and it’s incredible how so many little donations add up.
“This money will help fund some truly special experiences for siblings who are often facing incredibly difficult circumstances.”
Sibling days give children and young people an opportunity to have fun, spend time with others in similar situations and enjoy a break from the challenges they may face at home.
Activities range from themed hospice days and creative workshops to day trips and outdoor adventures, helping children make happy memories, build relationships and feel supported.
“These days are all about having fun and giving children the chance to simply be children,” added Genine.
“Siblings can sometimes feel overlooked because so much focus is understandably placed on the child receiving care.
“These activities provide emotional support, treasured memories and an opportunity to spend time with others who genuinely understand their situation.”
Meanwhile, EACH is once again rolling out its Free Books for Kids campaign across all 57 shops. The idea is that children can pop in and pick up a free book throughout their long summer break.
“We’re thrilled to be running this fabulous initiative again,” said Genine.
“It’s a regular school holiday event for us, and, as ever, we hope it encourages and entertains young readers throughout the summer.
“It’s always popular and well-received, particularly during the school holidays when families may be struggling for low-cost ideas to keep children entertained.”
To find out where your nearest shop is, head here.
