Give a gift to charity instead of sending cards

If you still haven't got around to posting your Christmas cards or are considering re-mortgaging the house so you can afford a book of stamps, help is at hand.

Although it's traditional to send seasonal greetings at this time of year, a Devon-wide health and wellbeing charity is encouraging people to make a donation instead.
 
Exeter-based Westbank Community Health and Care has launched its ‘Donate in Lieu of Christmas Cards’ campaign, asking people to make a charitable gift rather than spending money on buying and posting cards this festive season.
 
Katie Elliott, Westbank’s Head of Fundraising and Marketing said: “Every donation we receive, however large or small, makes a real difference to our ability to provide local health and wellbeing support. By donating instead of sending a card you will help support some of the most vulnerable in Devon this Christmas, making a lasting impact on every aspect of their lives, whatever their needs.
 
By simply donating the amount you would usually pay for Christmas cards and stamps, you will be supporting our community of helpers to better look after people across the county.”
 
Another way to have a lasting impact this Christmas is to donate to the charity’s ‘Give a Gift’ campaign. Every pound helps.
 
A gift of £5 will help Westbank to continue to run its programme of guided Health Walks across 24 locations in Devon, supporting people with their mental and physical health and wellbeing.
 
A gift of £10 will support the charity’s Patient Transport Service to get someone to hospital if they can’t access other forms of transport or get a lift from friends or family.
 
A gift of £20 will help Westbank to offer a young carer a break from the responsibility of looking after a family member, enabling them to do an activity they wouldn’t normally be able to do.
 
  
It’s quick and easy to give online. Go to www.westbank.org.uk/Appeal/donation-in-lieu-of-christmas-cards or  www.westbank.org.uk/Appeal/give-a-gift-this-christmas to make a difference this Christmas.