Donation helps Leicestershire hospice which is facing a shortfall of over £2 million amid the Covid pandemic

A housebuilder has donated £1,000 to a regional hospice which is facing a devastating shortfall of over £2 million amid the Covid pandemic.

Mulberry Homes has handed over the money to cash-strapped LOROS to support its vital work and kit out a new poly tunnel for green-fingered day therapy patients.

The cash boost comes as LOROS cares for over 2,500 people across Leicestershire and Rutland.

The charity provides free compassionate care and support to terminally ill adult patients, their families and carers, both at the Hospice and in patients’ own homes.

In a move to become more environmentally friendly, LOROS has just built a poly tunnel.

The new facility will allow patients to plant a range of fruit, vegetables and crops.

Their produce will be sold with any income being ploughed back into the project to fund new plants, tools and decorations, making it self-sustainable.

Bruce Smith, Supporter Engagement Co-ordinator at LOROS, said: “We were fortunate enough to receive a significant donation towards the end of 2019 to allow for construction of our new poly tunnel.

“But with the coronavirus pandemic leading to an estimated shortfall of £2.3 million over the next year, spending the extra money to kit the area out just hasn’t been financially viable.

“With this donation from Mulberry Homes it will mean the project can kick into action and begin benefiting our patients and their families.”

He stressed: “A heartfelt thanks from all at LOROS to Mulberry Homes for supporting us through their 10-year anniversary campaign.”

Kerry Jones, Sales Director at Mulberry Homes, said: “I’m very proud that we’re able to offer such a significant donation to LOROS - especially at a time where their essential work is more valued than ever.

“The pandemic has been especially challenging for LOROS and the patients and families they care for, with them having to adapt the ways they offer support, close their shops and make the difficult decision to restrict visiting.”

She added: “We’re delighted that the donation will provide the hospice will the tools and equipment they need for their brand-new poly tunnel.

“It’s a wonderful project that we’re thrilled to be a part of.

“We hope that the patients really enjoy learning new skills and growing sustainable produce and wonderful crops.”

The donation comes as part of the housebuilder’s 10-year anniversary campaign.

It is vowing to donate £10,000 to charities and organisations throughout 2021 – and LOROS operates near its Mulberry Homes’ Kingsbury Park development in Lutterworth.

For more information on LOROS, visit https://www.loros.co.uk/