A gala ball at Bedford Blues rugby ground has raised over £28,000 for Bedfordshire-based mental health charity, CHUMS in honour of their 25th anniversary.
CHUMS’ has been providing crucial support to help children, young people, and families in the local area cope with mental health challenges in Bedfordsire and beyond since 1997.
The money raised at the gala ball will be used to continue to provide the charity’s services including the Trauma Support Service, the Recreational Therapeutic Service, the Disability Friendship Scheme, the Suicide Bereavement Service, and the Babyloss Support Service.
The 25th Anniversary Ball, sponsored by Raymond James Hitchin, on 18 March was also a fitting tribute to the important work that CHUMS does in the community.
Speaking movingly on the night, CHUMS service users Betsy Banks and Henk Kroon, shared their personal experiences and told of how CHUMS had supported and helped them to cope after experiencing bereavement in their families.
HM Lord-Lieutenant of Bedfordshire, Susan Lousada also spoke on the night, saying, “I was thrilled to join guests at the Chums Ball.
“It was a wonderful occasion and the money raised will continue the vital work that Chums do supporting families and young people during times of need.
“It was both humbling and inspiring to hear directly from people whose lives have been affected by the loss of a loved one and how Chums have been there to help them through their darkest hours.
“I would like to congratulate Chums for everything they have achieved in the past 25 years.”
The Lord-Lieutenant then presented two unique gifts to CHUMS CEO, Dawn Hewitt, who has led the organisation since it was founded in 1997.
One was a specially commissioned 25th Anniversary poem, ‘The Site of a Sanctuary’, by Ampthill-based poet Sharnice Williams.
The other, was an original painting entitled ‘Walking beside you; every step of the way’ created by adults with learning disabilities at MK SNAP and donated to CHUMS in recognition of the incredible support they provide to children and young people.
CHUMS Charity Chair, Jenny Williams added, “CHUMS is extremely grateful for the support and generosity of the community and looks forward to the next 25 years of providing mental health support to those who need it most.”
CHUMS’ next campaign, “Calm Mind May”, focussing on anxiety with the aim to raise awareness and provide mindfulness techniques for reducing anxiety.
Schools, organisations and businesses interested in hearing more should contact india.marshall-roads@chumscharity.org to register their interest.
For more information on CHUMS’ services, please visit their website at chumscharity.org.
