A heartwarming festive market in Farnham has generated a significant boost for local hospice care, raising an impressive £9,501.74 for the charity Phyllis Tuckwell.
Festive Cheer for a Vital Cause
The successful fundraising event was the Christmas market held at St Thomas on the Bourne Church in Farnham. Organisers presented a cheque for the full amount to Sam West, the community fundraiser at Phyllis Tuckwell. The market was a classic festive affair, bustling with stalls offering everything from handmade crafts and Christmas decorations to boutique clothing, handbags, and delicious homemade treats.
How the Funds Were Raised
Beyond the stall sales, the event's total was bolstered by a popular tombola, a raffle, and a silent auction, all contributing to the final five-figure sum. It is important to note that the market also supported the church itself, raising separate funds for its stained-glass window restoration project.
Sam West expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the hospice. "We would like to thank the organisers of this wonderful Christmas market for this very generous donation," he said. "It was so kind of them to choose to support Phyllis Tuckwell through this festive event, and help us to continue providing our specialist care for those in our community who really need our help."
The Critical Need for Community Support
Donations like this are not just welcome; they are essential for the hospice's survival. Phyllis Tuckwell provides palliative and end-of-life care for patients and families in the community facing advanced or terminal illnesses, including cancer. Every single day, the charity supports more than 250 patients, relatives, and carers.
This support encompasses a wide range of services:
- Medical and nursing care
- Therapies and counselling
- Social work advice
- Practical support for families
However, the financial challenge is immense. With the NHS and Government funding covering only around 25% of its costs, Phyllis Tuckwell must raise over £25,000 every day to maintain its crucial services. This makes community-driven events like the Farnham Christmas market absolutely vital to its operation.
The charity serves patients across Farnham, Guildford, and Camberley in Surrey. For those inspired by this story who wish to contribute, they can find details of upcoming fundraising events and other ways to help on the Phyllis Tuckwell website.
