Charities & VolunteeringCharities & OrganisationsBe a brick - and help the Chelsea Pensioners! Be a brick - and help the Chelsea Pensioners!
17/04/2007
The Chelsea Pensioners have launched a "Buy a Brick" campaign as part of their wider Appeal to help raise funds for a new infirmary at the historic Royal Hospital Chelsea.
Launched to coincide with the first of one million bricks being laid at the new Infirmary site, the initiative enables members of the public to play a lasting part in a new future for today's 300 Chelsea Pensioners - and for future generations.
For just £5 the public can purchase a brick in the new building, and in return for their help, each donor’s name will be displayed in the Royal Hospital grounds as a note of gratitude from the Pensioners.
“£5 can make a real difference to the lives of our old soldiers," said a spokesman. "Eventually, soldiers currently serving in Iraq and on other missions will be given the opportunity to reside at The Royal Hospital in their old age. The success of the current Appeal will ensure they will have a modern home, fit for purpose. By donating now people really will be purchasing a piece of history.”
Built in 1692 to provide for old and injured soldiers, to this day the Hospital provides a stimulating living environment for its residents. With an average age of 83, men are eligible to become Chelsea Pensioners if they are over 65, in receipt of an Army Service or War Disability Pension and free from the obligation to support a partner or family.
Launched in 2005, The Chelsea Pensioners’ Appeal aims to raise £35m by the end of March 2008, and with just over £21m raised so far, the Chelsea Pensioners are keen to secure the rest of the funds and reach their target. The public simply have to log on to www.chelsea-pensioners.co.uk to purchase a brick in their name – or even in someone else’s name as a gift.
If you are interested in The Chelsea Pensioners’ Appeal you can give in a number of ways – legacies, a gift in memory, share giving or by personal cheque. Donations should be made payable to: ‘The Chelsea Pensioners’ Appeal’ and sent to: The Appeal Office, Royal Hospital Chelsea, Royal Hospital Road, London SW3 4SR, or call 020 7 881 5516/7.
A £3 donation can also be made by texting ‘RHC’ to 84424.
You can also visit the link below, or email appeal@chelsea-pensioners.org.uk