Re: Winter 2013/14 | Page 85

Valerie Emily Munday Day Centre Trust Valerie Emily Munday was born in January 1905 and just making it to her 100th birthday, she died in March 2005. A sociable lady who loved music and concerts, Valerie left a small fortune by way of a legacy so that others could benefit socially after her passing. Her residuary estate was in excess of £1.2m and that was left in a trust. Her Will states that her money should be used for; “charitable object or objects or for such charitable purpose or purposes for such day centres for the elderly in the counties of East and West Sussex as my executors in their absolute discretion select….” One of her Will’s trustees is chairman of Mayo Wynne Baxter, Dean Orgill. He said: “From 2005, we have received various requests for grants and we have made some of those including providing a minibus to fetch people and bring them to the day centres from outlying areas. “We have provided computer equipment and computer courses, arts and crafts materials, aromatherapy oils and a piano. We have also funded a programme for the promotion of health and wellbeing and have paid for hairdressers and beauty therapists to carry out treatments.” By all accounts, Valerie was a very sociable lady who used to like meeting with others and going out to listen to music or attend concerts or musical shows. So far, donations made to day centres have been from £1,000 - £5,000. Dean added: “There’s a lot you can do for a day centre with £5,000 but of late, we have not had many requests. “We would invite any requests for the funding of activities but what we don’t want is to fund repairs or have landlords making requests for painting or new roofs. This money is strictly for the provision of facilities or programmes. “We stretched to the transport because if people can’t get there, they can’t enjoy the activities.” The computers have been a success as they have enabled elderly people to learn how to email and use Skype so they can keep in touch with their families more easily. Dean added: “Valerie wanted people to go and enjoy the company of others, activities and maybe a bit of pampering and we are trying to keep that ethos going. Small grants can make a big difference. “The money is not for us to sit on so it can collect interest that is not what this is about. It is for day centres to provide equipment, programmes or activities for the over 60s.” The other trustee at the firm is partner John Clarke. He said considerable sums had been donated so far. Sums to the tune of £50,000 have been donated to the Queen Alexandra Cottage Homes in Eastbourne and more than £40,000 being donated to the Martlets Hospice. If you are involved with a day centre for the elderly and would like to know more about applying for a grant from the Valerie Emily Munday Day Centre Trust contact Dean via email: [email protected] By Liza Laws 83