Demelza, a children's hospice charity, has launched a summer appeal that will double every donation made online or at community events until September 13. This match funding campaign is made possible by The Freddie Green and Family Charitable Foundation, allowing supporters to amplify their impact.
Campaign Details
Every pound donated online or at community events will be matched pound for pound until September 13. The funds raised will support 1,100 families across Kent, South East London, and East Sussex, providing expert clinical care, emotional support, and practical help to parents who are full-time carers.
Impact on Families
Six-year-old Jack from Dover, who has Nager Syndrome, a rare genetic condition affecting physical development, attended Demelza Dots, a weekly play session. His mother Hannah said: “Jack didn’t walk, he barely signed and he hated messy play, but weekly sessions at Dots turned him into a hugely confident little boy. He quickly started walking as he wanted to get involved in all the activities that were on offer and became surprisingly into messy play, making a beeline for the table whenever he could. For us as parents, Dots represented a chance to feel a bit ‘normal’. Every other parent there knows to some degree what you’re going through; rare conditions aren’t that rare at Demelza, they’re often the norm.”
Charity's Perspective
Hayley Richardson from Demelza said: “It’s a challenging time for charities and more than ever, we are relying on our amazing communities to keep our services running. A massive 84% of our funding comes from our supporters but we know the way people are giving and supporting charities has changed so it’s exciting that this match funding appeal has a real focus on engaging with our local community. It doesn’t have to be an online donation - if you see us out in the community and pop some money into one of our buckets, if you shop in one of our shops and round up your donation or if you take part in one of our events this summer – every pound you spend will be doubled. You can even organise your own fundraiser and that money will be matched too. There’s plenty of fun going on throughout the summer – from a chance to win a giant LEGO man to visiting our marquee at the Kent County Show, there’s something for everyone. We know times are tough for everyone but if you can support us now, the money you donate as part of the appeal will go twice as far - you can help Demelza transform the lives of families in your local area. We’re so grateful to The Freddie Green and Family Charitable Foundation for this incredibly generous match funding opportunity.”
How to Support
Supporters can donate online, at community events, in Demelza shops, or by organizing their own fundraiser. Every pound will be matched until September 13. For more information and family stories, visit the Demelza website.
