North East schoolgirl makes kind donation to young people on mental health unit.
Lola-Mae Stephenson, aged 10, donated gifts to Ferndene in Prudhoe, which provides assessment and treatment for young people with complex health, behavioural and emotional needs.
Lola’s mam Stacey said: “We’ve had family members with mental health issues, so it felt fitting to make a donation to Ferndene.
“I think there’s a lot of focus around adult mental health, especially around wintertime, so we thought it would be good to do something for the children. Lola was really excited to be able to go and give her donation in person.”
Lola and her mam travelled to the hospital to give a selection of gifts including books, sweets, teddies and colouring books.
Lola said: “All the staff were lovely and welcoming. They really appreciated the donation.”
Jill Stewart, Associate Director for Specialist Children & Young People’s Services at CNTW, said: “We were delighted with Lola’s donation. It was such a kind gesture and our young people have really enjoyed using the gifts she brought.”
Lola is no stranger to fundraising and charity work.
She competed in the Miss Pre-Teen Galaxy pageant and volunteering was an optional part of that. Once the competition was over, she decided she wanted to continue helping more people and more charities.
Lola has donated to homeless shelters, fundraised for Sunderland Soup Kitchen and even collected discarded crisp packets at her school to be made into sleeping bags.
Lola, who goes to Usworth Colliery Primary School in Washington, said: “It’s very important to help people. I like seeing people happy.”
Stacey added: “I’m so proud of Lola. She has been nominated for awards for her kindness which is lovely. She just wants to help.”
Lola is already planning her next donation.
Ferndene is part of Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust (CNTW), a provider of mental health and disability services.