Rainbow thank you cards for key workers by Portsmouth artist set to raise funds for Rowans Hospice

Artist Gillian Jones, from Portsmouth, has launched The Rainbow Thank You Card Project to raise funds for the hospice, which helped her through its veterans’ support group after a chronic health condition changed her life.

As Covid-19 started to affect the hospice and its means of supporting people or raising funds to keep its support going, Gillian was driven to use her skills to raise money for the charity.

As an ex-naval officer, Gillian sought help from the Military Coworking Network, an initiative to bring together veterans and spouses in a professional capacity to support each other in their careers.

Gillian said: ‘It has very much been a team effort: from invaluable feedback on the design of the cards, to producing images for social media, to completely taking over when I was unwell.

‘I am very excited to see how much we can raise for the Rowans Hospice which has been of such invaluable help to me.’

A Kickstarter campaign is now running to pay for production of the first batch of 1,000 cards, with all the proceeds going to Rowans Hospice.

Craig Willcock, event and fundraising manager, said: ‘The past few months have been challenging for each of us in ways we probably could never have imagined. It is during these moments we have seen families and friends, colleagues and communities unite together to help and support one another.

‘We are delighted Gillian has chosen to support the Rowans Hospice Charity with her Rainbow Thank You Card Project. This is such a lovely way to thank those who have helped us throughout the pandemic.’

SEE ALSO: Rowans Hospice cuts five shops in the Portsmouth area - but charity's redevelopment project goes ahead

These recent challenging times have impacted on how Rowans Hospice reaches out to support those in most need, meaning virtual weekly Veteran Coffee and Banter sessions have proved extremely popular.

Craig added: ‘Through buying a pack of Gillian’s cards, you’re not only saying thank you to those who have helped you personally, but you are also choosing to support the Rowans Hospice Charity at a time when we are facing unprecedented financial losses.

To donate towards the first batch of cards, visit kck.st/2C4QLLR

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