Core join forces with 64 other local businesses to raise over £180,000 to help local hospice
Core has joined forces with a group of Calderdale businesses and volunteers to support Overgate Hospice in Elland during the Covid-19 outbreak. Over 64 businesses and business people have donated to the appeal, raising over £180,000 since May 2020.
In March, as the pandemic landed and lockdown was announced, the Hospice was forced to shut each of its 14 charity shops and cancel a huge number of large events and fundraising activities. This meant a sudden loss of desperately needed income for the Hospice which relies on donations from the local community to raise 77% of their running costs. As they entered the new financial year in April, the Hospice was predicting a loss of over £500,000. As this news was shared with the Hospice’s supporters, a small group of business people felt compelled to act to help their local Hospice through this incredibly difficult time.
Janet Cawtheray, Chief Executive of Overgate Hospice said, ‘This year has been incredibly challenging for everyone, and the loss of income has been a huge concern for the Hospice. In April, we had no idea how long the lockdown would last and how this might affect the patients and families in our care. When the Corporate Emergency Appeal was launched we were so grateful for the support but as the Appeal has grown we have been overwhelmed by the number of people who have donated and the amount raised. This money is already making a huge difference to the patients in our care. It has meant we have been able to continue to care for the Calderdale community, adapting our services as the restrictions have changed and supporting local people who are facing the end of their lives. On behalf of everyone at the Hospice, I would like to say a special thank you to [insert company name] for their dedicated support and to all of the local businesses and business people who have supported the appeal.’
Colette Watts, Managing Director of Core Facility Services, said, ‘We have a longstanding relationship with Overgate Hospice and understand just how important their services are to local residents, not to mention the pressure they have been under as a result of Covid-19. That’s why we were so keen to be part of this campaign to make sure their fantastic work can continue in our community.’
The Corporate Emergency Appeal is still open and any business who would like to get involved and join the group of 64 businesses who have already made a donation can contact to Selina Lodge, Head of Appeal at Overgate, on 01422 387121 or by emailing Selina.Lodge@overgatehospice.nhs.uk