Face masks and funky tunes are a fundraising hit for learning mentors

A fun facemask challenge and an online gig resulted in two Walsall College learning mentors raising hundreds of pounds for the NHS.

Walsall Manor Hospital received three new tablets from Samantha Holland and Rachel Timms.  These will help patients on the covid-19 and palliative care wards stay in touch with loved ones.

“When we saw the hospital’s appeal for the tablets on their website, we were glad to help,” said Samantha.

Samantha money by sharing pictures on social media of her posing in facemasks made from household items including lettuce, a crumpet, a scouring pad and a flip flop.  Her images became so popular that she asked people to sponsor her to keep making them.

“Being a bit silly helps us cope during difficult times,” Samantha explained.  “I just thought I’d make people smile.  I never thought I’d raise so much money.”

Samantha’s four-year-old daughter, Francesca also got involved by performing song and dance routines which were also shared on Facebook.

When Samantha had to step back from fundraising after her nan fell ill, her friend and colleague, Rachel came forward and used her singing talents to keep donations rolling in.  Her live online concert where she performed a selection of 60s soul hits was also a big success.

Rachel, who has been singing for 14 years added: “Contributing to the fundraiser like this has meant being able to help so many deserving people in such turbulent times.

“It was also wonderful for me to enjoy so much interaction with my family and friends over the live feed on the night.  I felt connected again and overwhelmed by the support I received.”

Samantha and Rachel are continuing to raise money to purchase CD players for the hospital wards.

To make a donation, visit  Samantha’s GoFundMe page.