Focus Foundation raises £130k for Sussex-based Charities

FOCUS Foundation has delivered yet another incredible night of glitz & glamour at their latest Winter Ball, raising £131,708 for Sussex-based charities.

Once again, the event played host to the LIVE grand finale of the Sussex Superstars with performances from five talented finalists: Mollie Thomson, Asher Chetwode, Grace Shearing, Arlo Giles-Buabasah and CC Dance (Olivia Pattison, Gracie-May Norburn, Brooklyn Pullin, Lola Baquedano-Deighton), and was hosted by comedian Aaron James along with a celebrity judging panel including Dame Arlene Phillips, Anita Dobson and Jacquie Brunjes.

Arlo Giles-Buabasah was crowned the winner of Sussex Superstars 2024 and took home a £500 cash prize and all of the contestants have been offered a chance to perform later this year at The Sussex Gin Festival, as hosted by E3 Events.

Guests were also treated to performances from Symphonic Ibiza, Emily Milton, winner of Sussex Superstars 2023 and Caitlin Palmer, finalist of Sussex Superstars 2023.

Packed with talent the black-tie event attracted 450 people from local businesses and charities in support of its mission to connect communities to make a positive and lasting difference to people’s lives.

Focus Foundation’s core funding is directed at charities that support one of its three core pillars: underprivileged children & young people, mental health initiatives and community projects.

50% of the proceeds from the Winter Ball have been ringfenced for local charities, Children With Cancer Fund, You Raise Me Up, Brighton Table Tennis Club, Kangaroos Mid-Sussex and Brighton Therapy Centre, with the other 50% being distributed to other qualifying charities and projects in the county.

Speaking at the ball, Anita Dobson, legendary actress on stage and screen and newly appointed Patron of Focus Foundation said:

“I’m thrilled to be back for a second year. This evening is all about joy and about helping people and raising money for Focus Foundation so they can do more good in the community for children because we all need a little help at times don’t we.”

Chris Goodman, Co-Founder & Trustee of Focus Foundation responded:

“We have been blown away by everyone who has played a part in making our Winter Ball this year such a success. These funds will have a huge impact on our charity beneficiaries and will allow us to continue making a positive and lasting difference to the people and communities they support.”