Dorset’s Disability Charity in need of a supporter for Christmas Grotto
Every year, Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s Disability Charity host an adapted Santa’s Grotto to ensure children with physical and learning disabilities experience the magic of Christmas.
Many of the children the charity supports are unable to visit traditional Christmas Grottos due to access requirements, sensory needs, not being able to tolerate busy places, or needing more time or space to take in the experience. The Children’s Team at Diverse Abilities offer a personalised experience where children and families they support can meet Santa in a familiar environment during a designated timeslot without the queues, crowds, and noise. Families even get a family photo taken as a souvenir of the day.
Unfortunately, the charity’s Christmas Grotto supporter is no longer able to fund the gifts. The charity is urgently seeking a supporter who can donate £1,000 to ensure this event goes ahead and these children have the Christmas they deserve. The £1,000 will pay for 73 personalised gifts for the children and siblings the charity supports, as well as replacing decorations which were destroyed due to flood damage at the charity’s Family Centre in last weekend’s torrential rain.
Clare Rochford, Children’s Team Manager at Diverse Abilities, commented: “Our Christmas Grotto is one of the highlights of the year for us and the families we support. It’s magical to see the whole family enjoy an experience that so many take for granted. The thought that this may not happen this year is heartbreaking. If you work for a company that could help support this very special event please get in touch”
If you are able to support this event and ensure that every child gets to experience the joy of Christmas, please get in touch with Helen at Diverse Abilities by calling 01202 718266 or emailing fundraising@diverseabilities.org.uk.
Visit diverseabilities.org.uk to find out more about the support and services offered to children and adults with disabilities across Dorset.