A FUNDRAISER for a local charity has praised the local Frome community’s fund-raising efforts as ‘inspiring’, turning 2012 into an ‘incredible’ year.
Positive Action on Cancer (PAC) fundraiser, Kelly Hall, says that she is overwhelmed with the support from Frome people over the past year and hopes that the support will continue this year.
Kelly said, “2012 was an incredible year and the support of the local community has been completely inspiring. We are very conscious that we need to sustain this level of activity to support our service and we need your support in 2013.
“We are looking forward to our next book shop, Splash of Purple and tea parties for PAC. We also have a team running in the Bath Half Marathon and lots of opportunities for supporters to get involved in fundraising events.
“Please get in touch if you wish to organise your own event or keep visiting our website to keep up-to-date with all of our latest activities. Via our website you can also sign up to receive our monthly email newsletter. A big thank you to everyone who supported PAC in 2012, and we would like to wish you all a Happy New Year.”
The charity reports, “The first few months of 2012 saw Positive Action on Cancer feel the pinch of the current economic climate, and in the spring the charity announced that they were facing the real possibility of a cut to services.
“However the community in Frome once again rallied behind the charity, and with the help of a generous donation from the Friends of Frome Hospital the year started to improve.
“May saw the introduction of new ideas such as the book shop and the tea parties for PAC – both were a fantastic success. The year also saw amazing events hosted by PAC supporters such as the Millie Moon Great Create and the Lolita Noir’s Crimson Cabaret. PAC also had so much support from local individuals who took part in challenges such as the John O’Groats to Lands End cycle, the Frome to Padstow Pedal and those who cycled, ran, walked and took part in triathlons for PAC.
“Throughout the year, PAC have supported around 250 people in the local area who have been affected or bereaved by cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, 56 counselling sessions have been offered each week.
“It costs PAC £45 to deliver each counselling session and the charity does not receive any government or NHS funding. Therefore the support of individuals, local businesses and community groups has been essential to the charity’s survival.
“With the arrival of the new year, PAC is asking for any support that people can offer, whether that be a donation through the website, nominating PAC as 2013 charity of the year at your group or business or signing up for an event during the coming year.
“PAC is currently the only organisation to offer free professional counselling to any adults or children affected or bereaved by cancer and other life-threatening illnesses in BANES, Somerset and West Wilts.” If you would like further information about counselling, the work of the charity or fundraising please contact Kelly Hall on 01373 455255, email fundraising@positiveactiononcancer.co.uk or visit www.positiveactiononcancer.co.uk
