Town centre businesses launch fundraiser to thank Maelor staff

Businesses in Wrexham town centre have come together to try to raise £2000 to purchase treats for NHS staff at Wrexham Maelor hospital. The initiative is the brainchild of staff from Martin Rees Jewellers on Chester Street but other local businesses have quickly come on board in order to thank the 2,500 staff at the hospital for all their hard work during the pandemic.

The initiative is called ‘Hugs for Heroes’ and gem expert Becca Martin, who works at the Jewellers, explained how it will work:

She said: 

“This idea initially came from Ruth Rees at a staff meeting. We wanted to arrange treats for key workers and decided to start with our wonderful staff at the Maelor. Each gift box is going to contain some special treats and a thank-you card designed just for them by local artist Emma Parish.

"Our NHS staff are simply amazing and are under more pressure than ever given the current situation with Covid in Wrexham. We know they’re exhausted and stressed but are still doing everything they can for our communities. We believe every single member of staff, from cleaners to consultants, deserve our thanks and appreciation. This is a small gesture in comparison to what they’re doing for all of us but we hope it helps to lift their spirits.

“ Of course we need your help to make this happen, so I’d appeal to people locally to chip in whatever they can to support our wonderful NHS heroes.”

People can donate online at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/yxscws-hugs-for-heroes

The initiative also has a Facebook page called Hugs for Heroes Wrexham.

Becca added: 

“A special thanks also has to go to other local businesses and volunteers who have come on board to help make this happen. I’d like to express a massive thanks to:

Josh Green: JDG Creative

Jacqui Blore: Piccolos Music and The Story Teller and Piccolos Crafts

Julia Chaplin: Ellis Chaplin Limited

What A Sweet Shop – Treat Delivery (want people’s names to remain anonymous)

Ruth and Martin Rees, Becca Martin and Lisa McGarett: Martin Rees Jeweller Pawnbroker

Emma Jones: Emma’s Miniature Gifts

Bobbi Cockcroft"