Residents from Kings Heath have raised an impressive £800 for charity, by hosting a lively ‘Ska and Reggae Night’.
Sara Breen, DJ Paul Heath and local musician, Steven Davis, organised the event to help raise crucial funds for Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice.
Taking place last month (OCTOBER) at local pub, The Red Lion, the vibrant evening saw over 100 music fans skank the night away to help support the local Hospice.
There was live music from The Project Collective and The Ska 45s, as well as a DJ set by Paul Heath, who all donated their time free of charge.
All money raised will go towards Birmingham St Mary’s, which provides vital care and support to local families living with terminal illness.
Sara Breen, event organiser, said: “Our ‘Ska and Reggae Night’ was a lot of fun, with everyone getting into the spirit and dancing the night away. Many of the people who turned up had a personal connection to the Hospice, so it was great to show our appreciation for the brilliant work it does.
“I first wanted to put on an event and support the Hospice because of the fantastic care it provides in people’s homes. 40 years ago, my Mum sadly passed away with cancer. She wanted to die at home but in those days, there was very little support for this, meaning her last weeks of life were painful and heart-breaking. Thankfully, we now have the services of Birmingham St Mary’s, which can support people living with terminal illness in the comfort of their own home.”
Charlotte Dowling, community fundraising manager, said: “It’s brilliant to hear how popular the ‘Ska and Reggae Night’ was and that it may become an annual event in aid of the Hospice.
“It costs £22k to run our Hospice each day and so we truly rely on the generosity of local people to keep our vital services running. Thank you to everyone who attended the event and helped make it so special – your support will make a big difference to local families living with terminal illness.”
At any one time, Birmingham St Mary’s Hospice is supporting 350 individuals – whether it’s at the Hospice, in their own homes or in the local community. It is committed in ensuring that the best hospice care is available to people and their loved ones wherever and whenever they need it.
To find out how you can host your own fundraising event, take a look here.
