West Sussex schools raise more than £13,000 for St Catherine’s Hospice

Reindeer antlers were a favourite amongst the students.

Schools around West Sussex took part in Reindeer Runs with children running or walking different distances and times around their school playgrounds and grounds.

Milton Mount School in Pound Hill, Crawley is just one of the schools that took part. They raised an incredible £3,564.94 towards local hospice care.

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Pupils advertised their Reindeer Run with a homemade poster displayed at the school gates which included a QR code that people could use to make a donation.

And it’s not only school children who’ve been having festive fun to help others in their community. A group of local children and childminders did a Reindeer Run that raised over £1,000.

Tori Handman said: “Our Reindeer Run was a lovely way to start the Christmas period, and to help our children learn that Christmas isn’t just for receiving.

“It’s a great time to think about others in need and learn that fundraising can be lots and lots of fun! It really was a brilliant experience and learning opportunity for our children and I’m absolutely thrilled that our run went as well as it did.

I never expected us to raise over £1,000 but I’m so proud of my Little Poppets and all their friends. Thank you to all at St Catherine’s for the amazing work you do!”

Lisa Hepburn, Fundraising assistant at St Catherine’s said: “We’re overwhelmed with the incredible support so many local schools and people in our community have shown our hospice.

“Their Reindeer Runs have definitely been a seasonal success! It's been lovely to help our community get into the festive spirit and their wonderful donations will help us give local families facing terminal illness the most special Christmasses possible.

“This time of year is all about making memories.

“This can often feel difficult when you're facing death and bereavement, but supporting people to create treasured memories is an important part of work at St Catherine’s, but it's only possible thanks to our amazing supporters.

“Without them we wouldn't be able to provide care and support at the hospice or in people’s homes across our community. I'd like to thank everybody who has taken on a Reindeer Run and raised money for St Catherine’s. You’ve all made a big difference this Christmas.”

Feeling inspired to do some of your own festive fundraising for St Catherine's? Visit www.stch.org.uk/diy or to make a donation to support your local hospice this Christmas visit www.stch.org.uk/donate or call 01293 447361.