Charity profile
Give a big hand for local CHARITIES
The amazing generosity of people in Kent helps to support many local charities so that they can continue with their vital work. Here are some of the many good causes who constantly need to raise money, so any donations or help you can give will be gratefully received.
Abigail’s Footsteps was launched in 2010 by Rochester couple Jo and David Ward in memory of their daughter Abigail, who was stillborn at 41 weeks gestation. Several years on, they are trying to use their own experience to “ease the pain of other parents”. Their aim is not to fund medical research into stillbirth as that work is already being done by others, but to increase awareness and improve bereavement training for hospital staff. The initiatives have included the production of a heart-rending short film entitled The Deafening Silence which gives a mother’s eye view of stillbirth.
Jo and David have nothing but
praise for the individual midwives who supported them through the birth of Abigail but say that many hospitals are still woefully unprepared to deal with stillbirth. “Numerous hospitals have inadequate facilities and equipment and their staff have received no bereavement training. It is the charity’s aim to change this,“ they say.
The charity has attracted high
profile supporters including newscaster Julie Etchingham, singer Cheryl Baker and weather presenter Sian Lloyd, as well as securing Lady Astor of Hever as patron.
For more information or to donate, visit
www.abigailsfootsteps.co.uk.
Heart of Kent Hospice, based at Aylesford, near Maidstone, is an independent charity providing expert care for people facing a life-limiting illness. Its catchment area includes Maidstone, Tonbridge and Malling and the surrounding villages. Its specialist teams care for nearly 1,000 patients and their families each year at home or in the hospice, improving their quality of life and helping them live each day as fully as possible.
A wide range of fundraising events
is organised throughout the year and there is a popular charity shop in Aylesford, which sells a huge stock of donated goods including clothes and furniture in aid of the hospice.
Forthcoming events include:
The Welly Walk, Kent Showground, Detling, near Maidstone, November 29, 9am to 3pm, in association with Maidstone Riverside Rotary, promises to be a fantastic day out for all the family. Explore the footpaths of the North Downs Way on the five or six- mile circular route before returning to the showground for delicious refreshments and family- friendly entertainment. Each child who completes the treasure trail will receive a gift from the treasure chest.
Prices, adults £7, children
£3, families £18 and £21. To book, call 01622 790195.
Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats Would you like a really unique, fun and informative idea for your child’s birthday party in a beautiful outdoor setting at Boughton Monchelsea? Then Buttercups could be the answer. Founded 25 years ago, the charity cares for about 150 goats at the sanctuary at any one time, with a similar number of goats fostered out to approved carers. The goats may have been abandoned or mistreated but are assured of a happier life with excellent care at Buttercups.
A range of events includes family
days, organised from May to October on the first Sunday in each month from noon to 4pm, when entrance is by donation.
For children’s parties, a separate
area can be provided with a marquee, tables and chairs, and some of the smaller goats can be brought to see the youngsters for some fuss, cuddles and even a brush. Parties can be held on Saturdays and Sundays. The charge is £12 per child, minimum age is four, and you must provide food and drink for the party. Face painting can be arranged for an additional charge.
For more information,
or to book or donate, call 01622 746420 or visit
www.buttercups.org.uk.
Mid Kent Living 29
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