Charities often rely on a large sum of money to be able to provide the essential services they provide.

That’s the same case for Northfleet-based ellenor which require £6.9 million each year to carry on their work as a hospice dedicated to helping terminally ill children and youngsters as well as their families.

This requires working alongside local businesses and relying on generous support to ensure they can continue to care for more than 2,800 seriously ill babies, children and adults each year.

The charity provides physical, emotional and social support - all free of charge - to people with these terminal or life limiting illnesses.

Funding comes in many forms, including companies or groups of people who take part in various activities to help raise money.

From cakes and raffle sales to running the London Marathon, London to Paris Bike Ride or the National Three Peaks challenge.

The ellenor Accumulator Challenge tasks teams in businesses to raise at least £50, which goes a long way in the charity.

Peter Smith, managing director of Berkeley Home - a property developer - who support the charity said: “We are proud to support such an amazing local charity that works very hard to provide palliative care to terminally ill children and their families.

“Over the last four years we have built a close relationship with ellenor, working to support them as a local charity. Our engagement is company wide and I am proud that our staff not only support ellenor through fundraising activities, of which there are many, but also give their time to help this worthwhile charity.

“A large number of our employees are based across a number of external sites. Through our partnership with ellenor, we are able to bring our employees together in a social environment and engage in some great team building exercises while raising vital funds for a good cause.”

You can help ellenor and donate to the charity by visiting www.ellenor.org/donate or by calling 01322 626509.

Every year, the Gravesend Messenger picks a local charity to support in the run up to Christmas. This year, we have chosen Northfleet-based ellenor - a hospice dedicated to looking after people and families affected by terminal illnesses.

So join us and show your support for the incredible work carried out there.