‘It’s more important than ever’: Northampton charity launches fourth Christmas hamper campaign for cancer patients

A Northampton-based charity that supports patients receiving cancer treatment has launched its fourth annual Christmas hamper campaign.

The Lewis Foundation, which was set up by Lorraine and Lee Lewis after the couple experienced first hand the need for joy on cancer wards, donates gifts and items of luxury to adult patients throughout the year.

However at Christmas, the charity goes even further and creates hampers to surprise those receiving treatment with something to brighten up their festive season.

For the last four year, the team has worked with local businesses and members of the public to make and deliver around 30 hampers, which usually include festive treats such as puddings, cakes and chutneys.

Lorraine said: “Anybody can nominate someone who is going through cancer treatment; family, friends, colleagues or whoever.

“We then work with local businesses to see if they want to sponsor a hamper and members of the public too.

“We package up the hampers and turn to the patient’s home and surprise them with it.

“It’s a great way to show extra support in the lead up to Christmas and it’s one less thing for them to worry about whether they can afford food.”

With funding from Northamptonshire Community Foundation, the charity will be able to fund hampers for even more cancer patients this year.

The team is ready for an extra busy period and is expecting to be able to create and deliver at least 41.

Lorraine added: “This year has been so tough for people going through treatment and having to do it alone, as well as people not being able to work.

“So it’s more important than ever this year to let them know they are not alone.

“We want to give as much as possible this year because we know how hard it has been for people.”

The charity is now appealing for any local businesses to come forward to sponsor a hamper for £30.

Members of the public can also sponsor a hamper, or donate towards one.

To find out more about the sponsorship or to nominate a patient who deserves some festive treats, email [email protected].

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