We are incredibly grateful to share the story of Patricia Ward-Jones, a wonderful supporter from Faintree near Bridgnorth, who has raised an amazing £20,000 in just nine months for Hope House Children’s Hospice.

Patricia, who is 71, set herself the challenge of raising the total in a year - but thanks to her unwavering dedication and the kindness of her community, she reached her goal in just nine months.

“I had been donating to the Bridgnorth shop for a number of years and was invited to visit the hospices and see what difference my donations were making,” said Patricia. “It was so amazing to be invited in and shown how money raised was being spent. It made me feel part of the cause and I decided I would really like to do more – so I decided to dedicate a year to fundraising.”

Patricia with her famous marmalade

Since that moment, Patricia has poured her heart into everything from bake sales and homemade marmalades, to organising beautiful Easter and Christmas hampers, and even hosting a Ladies’ Lunch and Fashion Show. She also took part in our Quality Moments Matter campaign, where every pound raised was doubled!

A Joint Effort

Patricia, who holds a British Empire Medal for her service to charity, is quick to share the praise:

“Raising £20,000 to help local children and families is absolutely incredible, but I can’t take all the credit,” she says.“I have had so much help from local businesses, community groups and family and friends which have all made this possible. It has really been a joint effort by the Bridgnorth community and I’d like to say thank you to everyone who has got involved.”

At Hope House Children’s Hospice, we care for children with life-threatening conditions and support their families through the most difficult times. We can only do this because of people like Patricia - and everyone who stood beside her.

Our local fundraiser Dawn Ball said: “It costs £10 million a year to run the services at our hospices, with no charge ever made to families for accessing our services.

“We can only be here for the children and families that need us the most thanks to the wonderful support of supporters like Patricia, and all those in and around Bridgnorth who have helped her raise this amazing amount of money.

“To raise £20,000 in just a matter of months is amazing and I would like to say a huge thank you to Patricia for all her incredible support – it really does mean the world.”

Feeling Inspired?

If Patricia has inspired you to get involved in raising money, click below to find out how you can help local provide care for children with life-threatening conditions.

Get Involved