MABS funding crisis
The vast majority of income raised to support the MABS Cancer Support Foundation is through their charity shops and local fundraising events – all of which dried up literally overnight on March 14 when the country went into lockdown. Unfortunately, one thing that Covid-19 cannot stop is cancer and despite the devastating effects it is having on the world, for those living with cancer it is that much harder.
This self-funding charity receives no government assistance - unlike in the UK where Chancellor Rishi Sunak has designated £750m towards the charity sector. The likes of Macmillan will be a great beneficiary, who can afford glossy television adverts for donations. Unfortunately, MABS is not in the same league but offers the same services, albeit on a much smaller scale.
Although MABS helps all nationalities, it is predominantly the British that seek their help.
Despite lockdown, chemotherapy and radiotherapy continues and where MABS often steps in, taking patients to the hospital for their treatment. They also provide carers and nursing services, equipment such as hospital beds and even offer palliative care, either at home or in a MABS hospital room… all of which has to be funded. Understandably, as people are out of work, donations have dried up and many planned annual events, such as the Walk for Life, Golf Tournament, Summer Hog Roast and Winter Ball are unlikely to take place, traditionally raising a significant amount therefore resulting in a funding shortage. Most of these events have to be authorised by the local council where it is taking place, to arrange road closures, organise medical stand by assistance and security. Once the lockdown is lifted, realistically council run events will take precedence meaning MABS fundraising events are highly likely to be cancelled this year.
Income from their eight shops up and down the coast has ground to a halt and thankfully most of the landlords have been understanding, with some generous ones wavering the April rent for which President Jacquie Phillips MBE is truly appreciative.
The latest shop to open was in Alfaz del Pi, (pictured above left) in a prime location on the main road (after months of searching) at the beginning of February. A fantastic team of volunteers man the shop, Monday to Saturday, 10am until 2pm and things were certainly looking good until last month. Everyone had been so generous with donations to fill the shop – clothing, furniture, bick-a-brac and a steady stream of customers soon made a stop at the shop for a browse and chat a regular weekly activity, building a real community spirit. Donations to all the shops is the backbone of income and during this month plus of lockdown, with plenty of time for a sort out and declutter, we are hoping that some will find its way. To collect items such as furniture, they offer a free collection service - call or WhatsApp 634 336 200.
Over the duration of the lockdown, many would have been going out and enjoying a daily coffee with friends. Perhaps they may like to consider redirecting some of those savings they have made towards helping MABS continue their invaluable work in the community? This can be done via the donate button on the website: www.mabscancerfoundation.com either via credit card, paypal or bank transfer.
MABS Cancer Support Fundación needs your support more than ever now. They have now been going for over 20 years, born out of necessity and with your generous support, will continue to do so for the next 20! www.benidormallyearround.com