Croydon Health Charity launched the Memory Lane Appeal in late 2024 to raise £157,000 for a dementia-friendly garden at Croydon University Hospital, and has now raised more than £100,000 toward its goal.
The garden will offer a therapeutic and calming space designed to support patients living with dementia during their hospital stay.
Christina Clynes, director of communications and fundraising at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, said: “This is a hugely exciting moment for everyone involved.
“Reaching £100,000 shows the power of both our fundraising efforts and our supporters, demonstrating how much people care about improving the experiences of people living with dementia in Croydon.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who has donated so far, including our generous donors from the Croydon 60+ Benevolent Fund Ltd, Surrey Freemasons, Circle Health Group, Saturday Hospital Fund and FDD International.”
Located at the borough’s largest NHS hospital, the garden will support physical recovery and emotional wellbeing while offering a peaceful setting for patients, families, and staff.
The charity has now passed the halfway mark in its campaign and is calling on the community to help reach the target by the end of 2025.
Ms Clynes said: “We’d love to see even more people stepping up to support the appeal – whether that’s by taking on your own challenge, donating online, or simply sharing our story to help raise awareness.”
To help reach its goal, the charity has launched a new 10km community walking challenge, Move for Good, set to take place in September.
Funds raised will go directly toward the Memory Lane project.
The charity is also partnering with residents, schools, and businesses to boost support through sponsored walks, bake sales, corporate giving, and online donations.
