Christmas is just around the corner, and cancer support charities across the UK are gearing up to spread some festive cheer. This year, two notable initiatives, Santa Paws and Project Christmas, are aiming to support those impacted by cancer during the holiday season.
On December 8, 2024, hundreds of dog owners and their furry friends are expected to gather at Christchurch Park in Ipswich, Suffolk, for the inaugural Santa Paws event, organized by Cancer Support Suffolk. This unique fundraising effort encourages participants to register their dogs for just £5, with all proceeds directed to supporting local residents affected by cancer.
Mark Murphy, CEO of Cancer Support Suffolk, expressed enthusiasm about the fun-filled day. He said, "This is going to be such a fun day; I hope as many people as possible turn up with their dogs in Christmas-friendly outfits. The owners can join the fun by dressing up too!" Murphy continued by highlighting additional planned attractions like food trucks and animal-related stands, making it the perfect opportunity for attendees to shop for their pets during the festive season.
Skinners, the event's sponsor, demonstrated their commitment to supporting the cause. Director Ben Skinner expressed his excitement: "Skinners are delighted to be attending Santa Paws at Christchurch Park this year. Supporting Cancer Support Suffolk, which does incredible work for families facing cancer, is something we are proud to do."
Another grand initiative, Project Christmas, will run nationwide by Project Youth Cancer, aiming to bring joy to young people aged 13 to 24 dealing with cancer. This annual campaign invites individuals to donate, ensuring gifts are provided for those spending Christmas in hospitals.
Through the charity’s Visufund page, contributions of £20 or more allow donors to select special gifts for young patients, complete with personal messages and photos. Pam Thornes, spokesperson for Project Youth Cancer, emphasized the importance of these thoughtful gestures: "When you donate, you’re not just giving a gift; you’re showing these courageous young people they are not alone. Your community cares."
Last year, the charity witnessed increased numbers of young patients, and they remain prepared to meet the emotional needs of these individuals. Gifts are lovingly wrapped by volunteers and delivered to approximately 600 young patients across 43 hospital units throughout the UK and Ireland.
Another fun-filled event will be hosted by The Hummingbird Centre, which will organize its first-ever Christmas dinner and dance on November 30 at the Littlebury Hotel, Bicester. This decision came after previous programming cancellations due to weather-related issues hampered their fundraising efforts.
Mechelle Harris, founder of The Hummingbird Centre, expressed her excitement, stating, "We are absolutely delighted to bring the dinner dance to residents and would urge people to sign up soon because places are limited." The event includes entertainment, dinner, and the chance for local businesses and individuals to mingle, all for the benefit of the local cancer support center.
Tickets for the Christmas dinner and dance are priced at £70 per individual, with the opportunity to book tables or sponsor them as well. The event will offer great entertainment, with the evening’s entertainment provided by the duo, Sparky and Sprite. The Hummingbird Centre is dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families through various services, relying on community donations and volunteers to continue their mission.
While both Santa Paws and Project Christmas focus on specific community needs, they embody the spirit of giving during the holidays. These events showcase compassion, creativity, and community engagement, reminding us of the impact individuals can have, especially during this festive season.
For those interested, all details for attending Santa Paws can be found on the Cancer Support Suffolk website, and information for Project Youth Cancer’s Project Christmas initiative can also be accessed through their site. Engaging, festive community events bring joy and provide much-needed support to patients and their families who are enduring the challenges of living with cancer.
Without doubt, as the holiday season approaches, the efforts of these charities highlight the importance of communal care for those facing cancer's trials. Whether it's dressing up dogs or making thoughtful donations, every action counts as communities come together to spread holiday cheer to those who need it most.
