Get giving locally during global movement

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“EVERY penny and kind gesture will be appreciated” by a hospital charity which is getting involved for the first time in an international movement celebrating generosity.

Rotherham Hospital and Community Charity is on the look-out for volunteers, fundraisers and people to spread festive cheer as it joins thousands of organisations taking part in this year’s Giving Tuesday campaign on Tuesday, November 29.

Giving Tuesday will kick start the charity’s Christmas fundraising campaign, which will once again raise money to fund the redevelopment of the children’s ward outdoor play area at Rotherham Hospital.

Rachael Dawes, head of fundraising, said: “Giving Tuesday is a global movement celebrating generosity and we can’t wait to harness people’s kindness and sense of pride in the NHS.

“It’s been another challenging year for many people, whether it’s due to recovering from the impact of the Covid pandemic or feeling the bite of the cost of living crisis. We know this means that not everyone will be able to give as much as they would like to.

“So for our first ever Giving Tuesday, we’re encouraging everyone to spread the love and give a little — whether it’s a Christmas gift, volunteering their time or a financial donation if they can.

“Every penny and kind gesture will be appreciated and will allow us to do more for our patients and their families.”

There are various ways people, colleagues, schools or community groups can support the charity on Giving Tuesday, including:

Fundraising for the Christmas appeal — check out the website for inspiration.
Donating directly via Just Giving
Volunteering your time.
Donating to the first ever Hygiene Bank — support patients who need basic toiletries such as shampoo, soap and toothpaste when they arrive at or leave hospital.
Gifting an extra Christmas present — toys for youngsters on the children’s ward and gifts for older patients would be appreciated. Check out the Amazon Christmas wish list.

Any gifts or toiletries can be dropped off at the Charity Hub in reception at Rotherham Hospital.

The Giving Tuesday campaign began in America in 2012 as a way to give back after the well-known shopping days of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The event is run by the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, which the charity is a member.

Last year, the charity raised £6,500 to help kick-start funding for the children’s ward outdoor play area but £30,000 is needed to transform it into a comforting, inspiring and family-friendly space for children and young people.

For more information, get in touch with the charity team on 01709 426821 or [email protected].