Record-breaking Snowflake appeal raises £437k for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity
Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity is celebrating a record-breaking year for its annual snowflake appeal, which has raised more than £437,000 to support young patients and vital research.
The festive lights were switched on this week at Sheffield Children’s Hospital, marking the 21st year of the campaign.
The appeal has now raised over £3.3 million since 2004, thanks to donations from families, community groups and businesses across the region.
This year’s switch-on was led by 18-year-old Georgia Banks, who has been treated at Sheffield Children’s Hospital.
Georgia, who has lived with ulcerative colitis since 2020, said taking part in research at the hospital had transformed her life after the condition left her exhausted and struggling to keep up with dancing, something she has done since the age of two.
“It was a massive honour, so exciting,” she said.
“I was diagnosed in 2020 and it’s been a bit of a journey since then. Last year I was referred to the research team and took part in a year-long trial.
“It’s completely changed my life. Before, I could hardly dance at all. Today I performed with my theatrical family and having them here really meant a lot.”
More than 200 snowflakes are now displayed on buildings across Sheffield and the wider region, including The Moor, Sheffield City Hall, Crystal Peaks, the Alhambra Shopping Centre and Woodhouse Community Hub.
Each snowflake helps fund research into childhood illnesses, supporting work at Sheffield Children’s Hospital that aims to improve care, prevention and treatment for young people now and in the future.
The appeal also supports specialist services at sites across the Trust.
Snowflakes at Becton and Crystal Peaks help fund mental health care, while those at Ryegate support children with complex neurodisabilities.
Snowflakes displayed at Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park contribute to the development of the new National Centre for Child Health Technology.
John Armstrong, CEO of Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “We are absolutely overwhelmed by the support shown this year. Every snowflake represents kindness, community spirit and the incredible support shown for children and families who rely on Sheffield Children’s.”
The charity thanked all partners, performers and supporters who helped bring this year’s display to life.
More information about the appeal, and how to get involved next year, can be found at sheffieldchildrens.org/snowflakes.