A travel firm has pledged to raise £25,000 to support a local hospice suffering a slump in income due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Ocean Holidays Group aims to attract an initial £5,000 in funding in May to support an appeal set up for Essex-based Haven House Children’s Hospice.
Coronavirus has resulted in the hospice having to reschedule its fundraising events and close its seven shops for the foreseeable future.
Romford-based Ocean Holidays, which comprises Ocean Florida, Winged Boots and Ocean Beds, as called upon its partners and customers to help by launching an online prize draw to win prizes such as a holiday in Orlando.
Staff are also being encouraged to raise money individually through online quiz nights, virtual DJ sets, plank challenges and sponsored quarantine haircuts.
Ocean Holidays Group co-chief executive Harry Hastings said: “We were just weeks away from launching Haven House as our official charity partner over the next two years with a £25,000 fundraising target from April 1, until coronavirus took hold.
‘‘It’s important to all of us at Ocean Holidays now more than ever that we give back to our community and support those most in need by delivering on this commitment.”
Haven House chief executive Mike Palfreman said: “Families tell us that we are their lifeline and we cannot let them face this alone.
“The impact that coronavirus will have on our vulnerable children and families could be devastating.
“Haven House faces a serious crisis and we need the help of our community.”
The prize draw closes at midnight on May 31 with tickets costing £1 each.
To buy tickets go to: www.oceanholidays-fundraising.com
To sponsor the team go to: https://www.justgiving.com/team/ocean-holidays