College sees red as it gets a head start on Ruby Slipper Day
Staff at St Vincent College, Gosport, dress in red to support the Rowans Hospice, Ruby Slipper Day Picture: Allan Hutchings (120472-316)
EAGER to raise plenty of money, college staff were quick off the mark to take part in Ruby Slipper Day.
St Vincent College, in Mill Lane, Gosport, held the Dorothy’s Dream fundraiser a day early yesterday so more people could take part.
And around 50 staff members kitted themselves out in red shoes, socks, tops and accessories to raise money for the hospice at home appeal.
Staff member Susan Lines said: ‘We raised £154 – it’s a cause we are really supportive of.
‘We have been fundraising for The Rowans for about 10 years after a colleague was diagnosed with cancer.
‘She used its services a lot and we can see why it’s needed.’
Today, scores of schools, businesses and organisations in the Portsmouth area are sporting red clothing, inspired by Dorothy’s red slippers in The Wizard of Oz.
Money raised is going to the pilot hospice at home scheme which gives terminally-ill people the choice to spend their last days with loved ones in the comfort of their own home.
In all, £1m is needed to keep the service going.
Since it started in September, more than 100 people have benefited from the scheme.
So far £766,103 has been raised.
But to maintain the service, the remaining £233,870 needs to be gathered.
Businesses and organisations are asked to donate £2 today and wear red.
Schoolchildren are invited to make a donation of £1.
The hospice will draw up a roll of honour for those who take part, which will be featured in The News tomorrow. To register, visit the rowanshospice.co.uk.
You can make a donation to the appeal by texting Dream to 70800 to donate £5.
You will be charged £5 plus one message at your standard network rate.
n If you’re taking part in Ruby Slipper Day then email your pictures to pictures@thenews.co.uk.
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Friday 25 May 2012
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