A heartfelt fundraiser organised by the local singing group, Cadence, raised over £2,200 for Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, providing crucial support for the charity.
The event, held on March 15, at The Factory Space in Bournemouth, welcomed 150 attendees, including local MPs, The Mayor of Bournemouth, and the CEO of Julia’s House.
The night featured live performances including an opening set by Mathilda Mae, a silent auction and generous contributions from businesses such as the Porsche Centre, all playing a key role in the event’s success.
The main event was Cadence’s emotional debut of their charity single, a rendition of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah, which was met with a standing ovation from the crowd.
Funds raised from the event will directly support Julia’s House as well as the royalties from the single.
Mayor George Farquhar praised Cadence’s performance and their commitment to charitable work.
He said: “I was amazed with the range of vocal ability and harmony. The poise, confidence and delivery of each and every member of the group was 100%.
“Their bond of friendship, and mission to support local charities with an obvious joy of singing and fun, will carry them so very far. And we will be a better community for them."
Martin Edwards, the CEO of Julia’s House, was impressed by the group’s efforts, saying, “I was absolutely amazed by the quality of what they produced, it’s just astonishing for a new group.”
Julia's House Children’s Hospice only receives 8% of government funding, with Edwards adding, “We have to raise the other 92% from donations.”
Edwards highlighted the importance of community involvement, saying, “We depend on the public knowing about us, talking about us, and raising money for us.
“We are a charity of the community, for the community, and therefore, local events like this are our lifeblood."
A key service of Julia’s House is providing continuous care for children with life-limiting conditions.
Edwards said, “If a child is reaching the end of their life, it’s not enough to say we only provide a service from Monday to Friday, nine to five.
“You’ve got to provide a round-the-clock care service to look after that child properly and give them the dignity and the care they need.
“That’s where Julia’s House comes in.”
Russel, a member of Cadence, reflected on the personal impact of the event, saying, “We want to inspire people.
“It’s so rewarding to see the support we’ve received.”
He also shared that he will be running in support of Julia’s House during a fundraiser in Southampton this April.
The venue was provided by Martin Jones, owner of The Factory Space, who also organised the event setup.
Cadence expressed gratitude to Jones and the volunteers who helped create a VIP experience for the attendees.
Edwards added: “Thank you to Cadence and Matilda Mae for their incredible support.
“The funds they’ve raised are wonderful, but it’s also the awareness they’ve raised that makes a real difference.
“Their efforts have helped keep Julia's House in the hearts and minds of the community.”
For more information on supporting Julia’s House, visit their website: https://www.juliashouse.org