Dulwich Almshouse Charity Residents do their bit for those in need
During these difficult times, many of us are acutely aware of those who are suffering, as well as of the contributions of many people, most notably key workers, NHS staff and voluntary sector workers, to saving lives and supporting those most in need.
Residents of the Dulwich Almshouse have been the recipients of many acts of kindness and support over the past few months, which will live long in the memory. Yet despite the significant restrictions placed on their daily lives, residents too have been doing their bit to support the local community and charitable organisations.
At the end of 2019, the Almshouse residents raised an impressive £565 at their Christmas Bazaar. This money has been donated to a range of charities, including Sophie's Wish, a charity that is particularly close to residents’ hearts as it was set up by the family of one of the residents following the tragic loss of her granddaughter. Funds raised for Sophie’s Wish are used to support 4 charities: Young Lives vs Cancer, Children's Cancer Trust, Demelza House Children's Hospice and Rays of Sunshine.
Residents of the Almshouse also donated funds to homeless charity Shelter UK; the Alzheimer’s Society and, in the last few weeks, King’s College Hospital, in support of their ‘Hospital Heroes Appeal’, which is raising funds to provide additional care, support, and wellbeing for staff during this time. A small portion of the money raised by residents remains unspent and they are in the process of agreeing which additional charity they would like to donate this to.
Residents have also been knitting pairs of hearts for the Friends of Lewisham Hospital. One of the hearts is given to the patient in hospital and the other is kept by their loved ones at home, creating a connection they can hold onto even though they cannot currently visit. The hearts have been delivered to the hospital on behalf of the residents.
Not resting on their laurels, residents hosted a Cup Cake day on Friday 5th June, while continuing to comply with social distancing measures, to raise further money for Alzhiemer’s Society. They will also discuss other ways in which they can contribute to the local community and support others over the coming weeks.
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