Two learning disability care homes in Lee-on-Solent, Hampshire, are celebrating reaching their target to raise enough money to buy a new people carrier after years of fundraising (16th November 2011).
The two homes, run by accommodation and support provider Sanctuary Carr-Gomm, first began fundraising in June 2004 and have held a major summer and winter event every year since, working towards their target of £12,600.
Staff and residents at the two homes raised £10,600 with the final £2,000 coming from parent charity Sanctuary Group. This enables the homes to purchase a Vauxhall Zafira.
Summer fundraising events included, the garden of one of the homes being transformed into a giant race track, with residents taking it in turns to throw the giant dice to move their horse around the course.
Guests said they enjoyed the racing and taking part in a raffle that also helped raise money and awareness for the cause.
In the winter, carol concerts were held and members of the local community, along with friends and family, were invited to hear the residents sing.
Manager Lesley Senior said: “This people carrier will be really important for our residents; we will be able to use it to transport them to their activities, such as evening clubs, rather then them having to use taxis.
“This will really take the pressure off their finances; relying, as they have to, on benefits and will enable them to do more, improving their quality of life.”
The car is expected to be delivered to the home in the first week of January 2012 and many of those who helped realise the homes’ fundraising goal, including friends and family of residents, will be invited along to see them officially take ownership.
