We’re offering a day’s takings to Donna’s Dream House after break-in

A Blackpool cafe is offering a day’s taking to help a children’s charity devastated by break-in which caused serious damage

The boss of Ella’s Kitchen, on Mowbray Drive, decided to help after reading about the burglary at Donna’s Dream House on Chapel Street, which provides free holiday experiences for terminally ill children and teenagers.

Intruders smashed doors, while walls and ceilings were damaged, pipework was broken, leaks were caused, and a much needed volunteer space has been left unsafe and in urgent need of repair.

The charity sent out a plea to anyone who was able to help, in any way.

Martin, the boss of Ella’s Kitchen, said: “When I read about it I thought it was terrible and just wanted to help.

“We will donate a day’s takings next Tuesday to pay towards whatever needs fixing.

“On average we can take around £3,000 so however much we raise will go to Donna’s Dream House.

“I hope this encourages other people to help as well.”

Since it was first launched in 1999 by Len and Barbara Curtis, Donna’s Dreamhouse has welcomed thousands of families through the doors of its four family apartments, whose themed rooms are specially chosen to give terminally ill children a much-needed break.

In a social media message, it said: “We’re asking for help with urgent repairs after damage to Donna’s Dream House.

“Sadly, someone has kicked in the main reception front door, before breaking into our separate Volunteer Meeting Room building.

“Both are heavily damaged. Doors have been smashed, walls and ceilings have been damaged, pipework has been broken, leaks have been caused, and a much needed volunteer space has been left unsafe and in urgent need of repair.

“We are now asking our amazing local community, tradespeople, suppliers and businesses for help to get the space repaired, safe, secure and usable again.”

Residents in Blackpool were shocked by the break-in.

Chris Penfold said: “The amount of people he has helped over the years. And a really nice guy. I did my volunteering there many years ago and what a really nice place it is. I really don’t get how people can do such a thing and hope they get found.”

Mary Smith said: “It happened to care and Care & Share Blackpool a few weeks ago. I don’t know what thrill they get from targeting charities, maybe they might need them themselves one day.”

Anyone able to help in any way is asked to message the Donna’s Dream House Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/officialdonnasdreamhouse )or contact the charity directly on (01253) 752222 or by email at enquiries@donnasdreamhouse.co.uk