A FRIENDSHIP group has donated much needed funds to Solihull’s Marie Curie Hospice following a year of fundraising.
Oddfellows’ Heart of England Branch, based in Leamington Spa raised £5,315.13 for the Marsh Lane site.
The local friendly society’s outgoing Chairman, Laura Greenway, who works as a District Nurse, chose to raise money for the charity after working closely with Marie Curie’s teams while caring for her patients.
The total was raised by local Oddfellows members through sponsored events, such as a half marathon, walks and rowing challenges.
Donations also came in through the annual Grand Draw – where members sell homemade baking, produce, cards, and crafts – as well as afternoon teas, and Christmas and Easter-themed tombolas and raffles.
Yvette Glover, district secretary of Heart of England Oddfellows, said: “It was a real team effort, and we are proud to be able to make this donation to such a wonderful charity.
“Community and helping people are at the core of what we stand for at the Oddfellows and we know that this money will go a long way to looking after those who need it most.”
Marie Curie provides essential nursing and hospice care for people with any terminal illness, a free support line and a wealth of information and support on all aspects of dying, death, and bereavement.
Rachael Ryan, community fundraiser for the Marie Curie in the West Midlands said: “A huge thank you to the Heart of England Oddfellows for choosing Marie Curie as their Chairman’s charity of the year and the generous donation.
“The money raised will help ensure Marie Curie can provide vital care and support to more families in the Midlands affected by any terminal illness, grief and bereavement.”
Previous beneficiaries of Heart of England Oddfellows’ generosity have included the Alzheimer’s Society, Midlands Air Ambulance, Myton Hospices, Prostate Cancer UK and Breast Cancer Care.
The incoming chairman, Katie Guthrie, has chosen to fundraise for the Warwickshire and Worcestershire branch of mental health charity, Mind.
