Hospital toasts success of donations to festive gift scheme
THE Royal Berkshire Hospital says that its annual festive gift appeal was a great success.
More than 850 patients were able to receive a donated gift to open on Christmas Day, beating the hospital’s target of 800.
Kirsten Rogers, the Trust’s voluntary services manager, said: “The Gift
Tree is a lovely initiative made special by the incredible generosity of our local community.
“We are very grateful to the individuals and businesses that supported the appeal and donated such lovely gifts.
“We were delighted to exceed our target and we know from patients’ comments that having a gift to open really brightened their day.”
She added: “There were so many people who got behind the appeal this year and it would be impossible to thank them all individually, both there are just a few that I would like to give a special mention to.
“The libraries in Lower Earley, Caversham, Pangbourne and Theale, and The Link café in Tilehurst all acted as community collection points.
“It was extremely helpful for people to be able to donate gifts in their local communities and we are very grateful for their support.
“And, for another year, The Oracle collected presents for our young patients – thank you.
“Our corporate volunteers from Huntswood, Microsoft and Pegasystems were also fantastic, helping us to sort, wrap and deliver the presents in time for Christmas Day. Their support saved over 60 hours of staff time – amazing.
“Thank you once again to everyone who contributed – your thoughtfulness and kindness helped to make our patient’s stay over the festive period that little bit brighter.”