Sixty households in Little Staughton have raised nearly £1,000 for The Robin Cancer Trust this Christmas by ditching traditional cards and stamps in favour of donations.
Now in its 18th year, the village Christmas card fund has raised more than £15,900 for good causes since it began, turning a simple festive tradition into a long-running community fundraiser.
Residents are invited to donate what they would normally spend on cards and postage, with no minimum or maximum amount. In return, each household receives a printable card featuring Christmas messages from everyone who has taken part.
Focus on young people
This year’s chosen cause is The Robin Cancer Trust, the UK’s only testicular, ovarian and germ-cell cancer charity.
The organisation works to stop young people dying from these cancers through early awareness campaigns and education, as well as supporting those already dealing with a diagnosis.
With cancer impacting families in and around the village, residents wanted to support a charity focused on helping people recognise symptoms sooner and feel more confident seeking help.
Testicular cancer is 95 per cent curable when detected early, and the Trust’s work aims to make sure more people get that chance.
Founded in memory of 24-year-old Robin Freeman, who died from testicular cancer, the charity delivers talks and campaigns in schools, colleges and workplaces across the UK, encouraging open conversations and reducing stigma around checking and seeking help.
Village tradition
Over the years, the Little Staughton Christmas card fundraiser has supported a range of charities, including The Stroke Association, Alzheimer’s Society, Macmillan Cancer Care, Bedford Samaritans and projects such as new play equipment for the village park.
Local resident and organiser, Sandy Moor, said: “What makes this special is seeing our community come together, year after year. Together, thanks to everybody’s generosity, we’ve raised more than £15,000 since it’s been running.
“This Christmas, rather than spending money on cards, families have donated to this year’s chosen charity, The Robin Cancer Trust.
“In return, I collate all the messages on a card that they can print out. We’re proud as a village to be able to support such good charity causes this time of the year.”
Toby Freeman, Founder and CEO of The Robin Cancer Trust, added, “I’m genuinely blown away by the Little Staughton community. Choosing to turn a Christmas tradition into a donation is such a simple idea, but the impact is huge.
“Every pound helps us get into more schools, colleges and workplaces with life-saving education, so more young people are aware of the signs and symptoms and feel confident to speak up early. That’s how we stop lives from being cut short.
“On behalf of everyone at The Robin Cancer Trust, thank you, Little Staughton residents, for backing our mission and for proving what community spirit really looks like.”
To donate to the Little Staughton Christmas Card Fundraiser, head to their Just Giving page.
