Blackpool charity in SOS appeal after intruders smash up building

A Blackpool charity which helps seriously ill children has sent out an SOS after heartless burglars broke in and caused massive damage.

Donna’s Dream House is appealing for help with urgent repairs after reporting that intruders kicked in the front door before breaking into the separate volunteer meeting room and trashing the inside of the building.

The non-profit charity, which is based on Chapel Street, provides free holiday experiences for terminally ill children and teenagers. It is well know in Blackpool for supporting families in need.

It was founded in 1999 by Len and Barbara Curtis and was created to fulfil the dying wish of their daughter, Donna, who passed away from cancer in 1996.

Since then it has welcomed thousands of famililies through the doors of its four family apartments, all with themed rooms specially chosen to give terminally ill children ea much-needed break.

Now the charity itself, which suffered a devastating fire 15 years ago, is in need after the raid, which occurred last night.

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.”

The charity says it urgently need a joiner or carpenter to help with internal repairs, damaged frames, doors and boarding, as well as a plumber to repair damaged pipework, stop leaks and check everything is safe.

Additionally, there is now a need for a new office door and frame, solid external doors and frames, as well as internal doors, new locks and handles and sheets of fireproof plasterboard.

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 emal at enquiries@donnasdreamhouse.co.uk

The message adds: “Every offer of help and donation will help us repair the damage and restore the house to the safe, welcoming space for our families and volunteers.”