Island-based charity Independent Arts has launched its Creatively Connected Christmas campaign, aiming to raise £8,000 to help keep its Creative Hub in Newport open – a warm and welcoming lifeline for Islanders who rely on creativity to support their mental and physical wellbeing.
For more than 35 years, Independent Arts has supported people across the Isle of Wight to live healthier, happier and more connected lives through creativity. From singing groups and art workshops to research-backed wellbeing programmes, the charity’s work reaches Islanders of all ages, helping to reduce loneliness, improve quality of life and support emotional wellbeing.
At the heart of this work is the Creative Hub, which is open 6 days a week. The Hub offers a safe, friendly environment where anyone can drop in, take part in creative activities, meet others, and feel part of a supportive community. For many, it is the only place they feel accepted and able to thrive.
This year’s Creatively Connected Christmas campaign features a community project inspired by the classic children’s book The Jolly Christmas Postman. The Hub’s festive window display celebrates kindness and connection, and visitors are invited to write a Christmas card to someone living in a local care home who may be feeling isolated. Cards can be dropped off at the Hub and will be hand-delivered before Christmas.
The Hub will remain open over the festive period for drop-in creative activities on 29th, 30th and 31st December, from 10:00 to 14:00, offering a warm space for companionship and wellbeing support.
Matt Hitt, Creative Programmes and Fundraising Manager at Independent Arts, has said:
“We see every day how creativity transforms lives.
“For some, our Creative Hub is more than a building – it’s a lifeline. With the community’s support, we can keep that lifeline open and continue helping Islanders live well through everyday creativity.”
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Independent Arts is raising funds through the GiveMatch platform, which can double – or even triple – donations at no extra cost. Supporters who donate through the charity’s GiveMatch page will receive a personal referral link. If two people use that link to make a donation, the original donation will be doubled.
To donate or find out more, visit www.app.givematch.com/fr/kyJjSwTM.
