KENTMAS
HOW TO...
GIVE BACK
CHRISTMAS IS A SEASON OVERFLOWING WITH COMMUNITY CHEER AND CELEBRATION, BUT IT’ S ALSO ONE OF REFLECTION, GOODWILL AND GRATITUDE- A MOMENT TO COME TOGETHER AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO THOSE WHO NEED IT MOST. HERE ARE SOME OF THE WONDERFUL WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT SOME OF KENT’ S INSPIRING CHARITIES THIS FESTIVE SEASON( AND BEYOND), CHOOSING SPLENDID GIFTS THAT REALLY DO KEEP ON GIVING.
PILGRIMS HOSPICES DEMELZA
Pilgrims Hospices pilgrimshospices. org
East Kent’ s largest hospice charity helping those facing incurable illness to live well in every moment, Pilgrims Hospices is once again hosting festive events for the local community to take part in. On 6 December, those wishing to reflect and remember loved ones can join the hospice’ s annual Trees of Love services in Canterbury, Thanet and Ashford. As the trees are lit, every dedicated dove will shine brightly, remaining alight throughout the season.
On 14 December, Santas on the Run! will bring a flurry of red-suited runners to Herne Bay’ s seafront for a family-friendly 3km, 5km or 10km dash to raise money for hospice care. Pilgrims is also helping you to give back in simple, eco-friendly ways this year. Their Christmas Tree Recycling scheme will run again in January, collecting trees for a donation and, for a classic festive touch, you can send your loved ones thoughtful Pilgrims Hospices Christmas cards, available to buy online and in hospice shops across the county.
Demelza demelza. org. uk
Providing extraordinary care to children and young people with serious or life-limiting conditions while creating extraordinary moments along the way, Demelza offers support and services as unique as every family across Kent, South East London and East Sussex. On 16 December, Demelza will host its annual Celebration of Christmas at Canterbury Cathedral, where audiences can immerse themselves in a heartwarming evening of candlelit carols, celebrity readings and special guest appearances, with ticket prices starting from £ 11. Also, plan to venture across to the capital to take part in the 10th annual Santa in the City fun run from Paternoster Square to raise vital funds.
You can complete the 4km route by running or strolling through London on 2, 3 or 4 December.
East Kent Mind eastkentmind. org. uk
From 8- 14 December, East Kent Mind will be holding a Mental Elf Week, encouraging local workplaces to take part in festive fundraising to support those either struggling with their own mental health or caring for someone else who is having a tough time. Workplaces can purchase a festive Mental Elf Pack for a £ 20 donation that includes two elf hats, a poster, an elf photoshoot and an East Kent Mind branded collection pot.
From baking cakes to Christmas-themed colleague challenges, it’ s a joyous way to spread cheer while giving back important wellbeing support this festive season.
www. insidekent. co. uk • 101