Van Manufacturer Donates Vehicles to Hospice Charity

UK – Mercedes-Benz Vans have donated a new Vito van to the Willen Hospice in Milton Keynes. The vehicle has been assigned to the hospice's Facilities Management team and is now supporting the charity's network of shops. It will also be used to transport bulky promotional materials to and from fund-raising and other events. Mercedes-Benz Vans operates from its UK headquarters also in Milton Keynes and is a long-term supporter of the charity.

Willen Hospice provides specialist palliative care to people served by the health authorities covering Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire & Northamptonshire. It also offers bereavement support for loved ones. Just 22% of the hospice’s running costs are met by the NHS, so it needs to raise an additional £3.6 million every year to remain open.

The hospice derives regular income from its chain of nine high street shops in the city and surrounding towns. As well as maintaining these, its Facilities Management team are responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of other premises, including a sorting and distribution centre at Kiln Farm. Chief Executive Paul Hinson said:

“We’re incredibly grateful for the donation of this wonderful new van by Mercedes-Benz. It’s an invaluable resource and will help us continue to raise vital funds for the care we provide throughout the year.

“We rely heavily on the van for transportation of large objects that are needed for our events, while the estates team also use it to support the valuable work they do at the Hospice.”

Mick Glover, Remarketing Manager for Mercedes-Benz Vans, added:

“The staff at Willen Hospice make a huge difference by providing wonderful care to patients with life-limiting illnesses, and their families. It is an invaluable asset to the community and there is no cause more deserving of our support.”