What's Happening?
A family in Gillingham, Kent, has been using their annual Christmas lights display to raise money for a local children's cancer charity, My Shining Star. Lavinia Hedges and her mother, Nicola, have decorated their home on Wigmore Road for the past five years, raising over £35,000. The 2025 display is Grinch-themed, featuring a Dr. Seuss-inspired grotto and sledge, and a replica of the Whoville post office. The family uses low-powered LED bulbs and solar panels to keep electricity costs low. They also celebrate Easter and Halloween with themed light shows, attracting visitors from as far as Essex.
Why It's Important?
This initiative highlights the power of community engagement and creativity in supporting charitable causes. By transforming their home into a festive
attraction, the Hedges family not only spreads joy but also raises significant funds for a charity that supports families dealing with childhood cancer. This model of community-driven fundraising can inspire other families and communities to leverage local traditions and creativity for philanthropic efforts. It also underscores the importance of supporting self-funded charities that rely on community contributions to continue their work.
