TWO local charities were recognised at the Kent Charity Awards at Priestfield Stadium in Gillingham on March 15.
The hospice organisation ellenor was named Care Charity of the Year, and Crossways Community in Tunbridge Wells won the Supporting Services Charity of the Year Award.
The Care award recognises ellenor’s commitment to its patients and their families in delivering high-quality care and support when it is needed most.
ellenor is the only charity in the county to provide free hospice care for people of all ages in their place of choice. Last year it supported more than 2,500 families.
It was shortlisted alongside the Kent Autistic Trust and Pilgrims Hospices.
Claire Cardy, ellenor’s Chief Executive said: “We are thrilled and deeply honoured to win Care Charity of the Year and for it to be recognised that our personalised approach to care is making such a difference to people’s lives.
“I am incredibly proud of the whole team and I would like to thank the staff and volunteers for everything they do.”
She added: “My special thanks also goes to our faithful and committed supporters, who enable us to raise the necessary funds to provide our services free of charge to patients and their families.”
Crossways Community provides residential care and support for adults aged 18 to 65 with acute to moderate mental health issues. The Christian organisation also runs mental health awareness training for schools, businesses, churches and community groups.
Crossways was nominated along with YouCan Youth Cancer Support, Rising Sun Domestic Violence and Abuse Service and Space 2 Be Me, for disabled young people.
Chris Munday, Crossways’ Chief Executive, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the organisation and we feel very proud of the recognition.
“Crossways has been doing great work for 50 years and it’s wonderful to receive this award. I am very proud.”
To book training, email: chris.munday@crosswayscommunity.org.uk
For information about ellenor, call 01474 320007 or visit www.ellenor.org
