A fundraising appeal launched by a hospice that cares for children and young people from Nottinghamshire has almost hit the £100,000 mark.

Last month, Rainbows Hospice for Children and Young People announced it was facing loses of up to £1m because of the Covid-19 crisis. Although the hospice isn’t at imminent risk of closure, the future is uncertain.

Thanks to the generosity of its supporters, the appeal has now raised £95,000 and the charity – which is the only one of its kind in the East Midlands – needs that final push to get it to £100,000 and beyond.

Julie Taylor, executive nurse and director of clinical operations at Rainbows, said: “Firstly I would like to thank every single person who has donated to our appeal, individuals, groups and companies. People have been so generous and we have been quite overwhelmed with the support.

“Every donation really does make a difference, especially in these unprecedented times. Because of these contributions to Rainbows, we can continue to provide services to families who really need us; those going through the most difficult of times.

“I would also like to extend the thanks to everyone who has taken the time to send us a message of support. We read every single one of them and they brighten our days.”

During the Covid-19 crisis, Rainbows has adapted the hospice and trained staff to be able to care for children from Leicester’s Children’s Hospital to help relieve strains on the NHS and nursing them until it’s safe for them to go home.

The charity also extended its bereavement support and counselling to every local family who has lost a loved one, as well providing an At Home Support Service, enabling Hospice Care Assistants to visit Rainbows families in their own homes. Rainbows is also continuing to provide emergency stays for families and end of life care.

“We’re so close to reaching that £100,000 mark,” added Julie. “So please, if you haven’t donated yet and you are able to, think of Rainbows and our children and young people.”

Since the outbreak, shortfalls have occurred because Rainbows was forced to close its five shops across the East Midlands, mass participation events have been cancelled and it is unable to hold any fundraising events. Schools, community groups and companies cannot carry out their regular fundraising and income from the Rainbows’ Lottery is also down. This year’s Spring Superdraw was cancelled for the first time in its history.

To help Rainbows, visit rainbows.co.uk/donate