Independent’s Christmas fundraising campaign has come to a triumphant end, with a whopping $12,475.22 raised for the Centenary Hospital for Women and Children.

Ann Ronning, Canberra Hospital Foundation’s Director of Community Engagement, says the money will be used to enhance the experience of their child patients.

“The funds raised through Independent's Christmas appeal will be used to purchase play equipment and toys which will benefit paediatric patients in clinic waiting rooms and consult rooms throughout Canberra. The funding will help to create welcoming and engaging environments that support play, as well as providing play equipment that will assist doctor’s assessments of children’s development.

Along with this, funds will be used to purchase equipment to support and enhance the music, art and play therapy program for use in outpatient clinics, wards and playrooms across Canberra Health Services.”

Grace Hooper, Head of Property Management Growth, is thrilled with the result.

“Most of the money was raised internally, with all of the Independent staff joining in. We also reached out to the tradespeople we have relationships with, who generously agreed to contribute.”

Independent took a multi-faceted approach to the fundraising effort. “We did a lot of different things, from bake sales to auctions, to help raise the money. The campaign was a great opportunity for Independent team to come together and unite for a common cause. We were thrilled with the level of enthusiasm and generosity shown.”

Being a hospital patient is never fun, and it is particularly hard on children. Independent hopes that the funds raised can make the experience, if not pleasant, at least easier on everyone.

Ann agrees. “From arts and craft material, to play houses and kitchens, trikes to ukuleles, the equipment purchased will help to alleviate stress and provide comfort and distraction to children who are unwell. It is fantastic to have the support from the Independent Property Group, and on behalf of medical staff, families, carers and paediatric patients in Canberra, we are so thankful for your generosity!”