Eastbourne charity celebrates £18,000 grant from National Lottery

Chalk Farm LDC, located at Chalk Farm Hotel in Willingdon, has received the grant after a series of fundraising by the charity as it celebrates its 30th anniversary.

The charity gives adults with learning disabilities and/or autism the opportunity to receive training within a realistic working environment.

The charity’s students can learn skills in hospitality, including housekeeping, customer service and food prep, and horticulture, which includes how to maintain gardens and grow fruits and vegetables.

A spokesperson for the hotel said: “We are very pleased to announce an £18,000 grant from the National Lottery.

When we set up our £30,000 for our 30th birthday earlier on this year we knew it was going to be a challenge, but with our total fundraising for this year now being £21,187, it’s looking achievable.

“When we set up our £30,000 for our 30th Birthday earlier on this year we knew it was going to be a challenge, but with our total fundraising for this year now being £21,187, it’s looking achievable!

“If you would like to know what we are spending this grant on please email [email protected]

“Thank you to everyone that has donated so far.”

The charity is set to celebrate its 30th anniversary on August 4.

Shanice Dolan, Head of Fundraising for Chalk Farm LDC, said: “The charity has adapted and grown in the last 30 years, especially during the times of the pandemic, but the goal has always stayed the same.

"We are planning to celebrate all year long with approximately ten fundraisers, including our big birthday party in August."

In addition to its work to support adults with learning disabilities, the charity also hosts a range of events which are designed for all to enjoy.

Shanice added: “We host as many fundraisers as possible at the hotel, not only to raise vital funds for the charity but to also create a welcoming community.

“Events such as fayres, garden parties, wellness evenings, kids events, discos designed for adults with learning disabilities and more. We host stalls for all ages. Gifts, raffles, games, prizes and more."