Over the past 22 years, Darlington Building Society has raised £100,000 for St Teresa’s Hospice, which supports people with life-limiting illnesses at its Darlington base, and recently handed over a cheque for £100,000 representing the total amount provided over the years.
The building society’s Chief Executive, Andrew Craddock, said: “Building societies were formed to help the communities they serve, something that is still a high priority for us.
“It’s wonderful to see the difference the funds provided by our staff and members have made to St Teresa’s Hospice and we’re proud to have reached the incredible milestone of £100,000 generously given.”
The funds given by the society have helped to fully equip the Rainbow Room, part of the new inpatient unit, which provides a space for terminally-ill patients to spend time with their loved ones. The room was named by Darlington resident Wendy Goold, after the society hosted a competition on its Facebook page.
The donations have also funded the installation of a memory tree sculpture, allowing family and friends to remember their loved ones, which will continue to be a source of fundraising income for years to come.
St Teresa’s CEO Jane Bradshaw said: “The building society has been with us since the very beginning of the hospice and has supported us not only by providing £100,000 of funds, but also participating in events and even featuring collection boxes in-branch.
“The generosity of the society and its members is crucial to the successful running of the hospice; this support and that from other businesses and the community in Darlington, has ensured we can provide ongoing palliative care services for the people of Darlington and district.”
The types of charities and organisations supported by Darlington Building Society’s 5% pledge, which gives five per cent of its net profits back into the community, are chosen by members, with St Teresa’s Hospice aligning with the desire to support people helping people.
For more information about Darlington Building Society and its 5% pledge, visit www.darlington.co.uk/community/sharing-funds/
For more information about St Teresa’s Hospice, visit: www.darlingtonhospice.org.uk
Twitter: @DarlingtonBS
Pictured: Darlington Building Society CEO Andrew Craddock and St Teresa’s Hospice CEO Jane Bradshaw
