Wait is almost over before staff get keys for hospice
A huge fundraising effort to create a state-of-the-art hospice for St Wilfrid’s in Bosham is drawing to a close, with the move to the new facility now set for June.
Just £600,000 remains to be raised of the £16.2million needed for the new hospice, which will provide specialist care and support services, both on and off site, to local people living with terminal illnesses.
This week marks the official end of the ‘Dreambuilding’ fundraising campaign as the hospice turns its focus towards the final funds for building and ongoing support to run its Bosham site.
St Wilfrid’s chief executive, Alison Moorey, said: “The last three and a half years have been a crucial time in looking ahead to the next chapter for St Wilfrid’s, ensuring we’re able to develop and provide the hospice’s vital services for many more years to come.
“We are so thankful to everyone who has contributed to the success of the campaign and we look forward to announcing more news about the move in April.”
A final fundraising event marking the official end of the Dreambuilding campaign was held at Goodwood House on Thursday, March 7. The Dream Makers’ Ball was a sell-out VIP evening, which raised close to £60,000.
One of the most magical highlights of the campaign, and the single most successful event in terms of money raised, was last summer’s Midsummer Night’s Dream Gala.
With Boxgrove Priory as the backdrop, guests were transported into a woodland wonderland and enjoyed an evening of music, dancing, food and entertainment, contributing more than £100,000 from ticket sales, auctions and a raffle.
Sarah Mansell, capital campaign director for Dreambuilding, said: “Everyone here at St Wilfrid’s wish to extend their heartfelt thanks to all the individual supporters, trusts and foundations, groups, businesses, local organisations, as well as hospice supporter groups, volunteers and staff who have made this success possible.”
Donations are still open to make a difference as part of the Dreambuilding campaign.
To find out more on how you could help visit www. dreambuilding.org.uk or call 01243 775302 to make a donation.