For the last 17 years, Chestnut Tree House has been there for local children with life-shortening conditions and their families, both at the hospice near Arundel and in their own homes across Sussex.

No one is ever charged for the care they receive at Chestnut Tree House, but less than 6% of the funding comes from the government. They rely heavily on the support of the local community, through donations and fundraising.

But the coronavirus crisis is having a devastating impact on fundraising, with charity shops closed and events postponed or cancelled. This is threatening the future of the children’s hospice and the care and support they provide for local children and families.

The maths are simple...
It costs £400,000 a month to run Chestnut Tree House, most of which comes from fundraising.
Right now, the hospice is losing 70% of their monthly fundraising income. It is only a matter of time before they run out of money.

Rosemarie Finley, CEO Chestnut Tree House said: “Now, more than ever, the hospice and the people who depend on it, need your help. Community support is vital. We appreciate that this is a difficult time for everyone, but if you can afford to, we’d be very grateful for any help you can offer – to keep our services running and bring some desperately needed support to children and families facing some very dark times.”

Your support will help children like Lil- ly. Seven-year-old Lilly is profoundly deaf, cannot walk and has very complex needs. Now her family are in lockdown and finding life a huge challenge, as Lilly’s mum Paula said on the phone:

“I am just waiting for the phone call from Chestnut to let me know when someone can visit. That couple of hours will be lovely, it will just mean that I don’t have to worry about her for a little while. I can relax knowing someone else is with her to give her everything she needs.”

Confined to her home, Lilly and her family are struggling to cope. Your gift could fund a visit from one of the Chestnut Tree House team and give them a few hours of relief and joy. Now more than ever, the children and families who depend on Chestnut Tree House need the help of friends like you.

To help to save your local children’s hospice, visit www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/SOS