Diary Of A Fundraiser

Chestnut Tree House is your local children’s hospice and they care for children and young people with life-shortening conditions across Sussex and South East Hampshire, all of whom are unlikely to reach adulthood.

From Chestnut Tree House

From always being on the other end of the phone to supporting families through some of their toughest moments, Chestnut Tree House is always there for families with children with short and precious lives.

And, when the time comes, Chestnut Tree House is there to help families say goodbye, in whatever way feels right for them, either at home or in the hospice itself. They offer ongoing bereavement support for the whole family.

An Interview with your Local Fundraisers

We caught up with Amber Lilly and Jayne Todd, fundraisers at Chestnut Tree House to hear about how the hospice has coped throughout the pandemic, how the world of fundraising has changed and how your support makes a big difference to local families.

“Before COVID-19 hit, the life of a fundraiser was very busy. We were always here, there and everywhere” says Amber. “I had very little time sat at my desk, always networking with amazing local businesses, doing presentations about the hospice, speaking to our incredible supporters and all sorts.

“Last spring, the world of a fundraiser drastically changed, as it did for many others. For our supporters, office working became a thing of the past. Events were cancelled. And fundraising as we knew it was not possible,” says Jayne. “We were concerned as without the support of the local community; children’s hospice care wouldn’t be possible.”

“When the pandemic struck, our fundraising income dropped by 70% as we had to close our shops and all events were postponed or cancelled.”

“We receive very little of our funding from central government, so even in ‘normal’ circumstances, we rely heavily on the generosity and support of the community, but now that is even more critical. But our incredible supporters adapted and continued to fundraise when we needed their support more than ever. And thanks to people like you, things have started to improve” says Jayne.

“From back garden marathons, singing from the rooftops to virtual quiz nights, the support of the local community has been overwhelming. There are so many inspiring and motivational stories of individuals and businesses supporting Chestnut Tree House throughout these hard times.”

“If you’re thinking about supporting Chestnut Tree House, then please, get in touch! We will support you in coming up with your fundraising ideas, making the most of your fundraising and all sorts. Not only will you have heaps of fun, but you will also be making such a big difference to children in your local community.”

“We don’t know what the year ahead will look like, but we do know that we will continue to be there for local children with short and precious lives and their families. And to do this, we need you. There are so many ways to get involved with your local children’s hospice. So please, get in touch today and make 2021 your year to make a difference!”

Get in Touch

To get in touch with Amber and Jayne, please contact enquiries@chestnut-tree-house.org.uk or call 01903 871820. Alternatively, to find out about Chestnut Tree House, please visit the website by clicking here

For more of our articles on Chestnut Tree House click here