Local homelessness charity joins Suffolk's giant hare art trail

The big picture: The art trail raises funds for the hospice and engages local communities with the specialist care provided to patients and families living with progressive and life-limiting illnesses.

Why it matters: The trail raises vital funds for St Elizabeth Hospice while allowing Hopestead to raise awareness about homelessness. According to Hopestead, people who have lived on the streets have a life expectancy of 30 years lower than those with secure housing.

Key details:

• The art trail will feature giant hare sculptures across Ipswich, Beccles, Lowestoft, Felixstowe and Woodbridge next summer

• 38 decorated hare sculptures will be displayed

• This will be the first time that sculptures will be located in Beccles, Felixstowe, Lowestoft and Woodbridge

What they're saying:

Marie-Claire Delbrouque, Hopestead chief executive, said: "We're proud to be sponsoring the art trail St Elizabeth Hospice is bringing to Suffolk in 2025. At Hopestead, our goal is to end homelessness. The harsh reality is that people who have lived on the streets have a life expectancy 30 years lower than those who have a safe place to live."

She added: "We hope our 'Hopestead hare' will shine a light on the severe health challenges and life-limiting conditions faced by those without a safe place to call home. And we hope to be able to help raise money for the vital work of St Elizabeth Hospice."

Liz Baldwin, corporate and sponsorship fundraising manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, said: "We're delighted that Hopestead are joining us as a sponsor for Hop to it! Suffolk 2025, especially with their focus on people who could be living with a life-limiting illness without a home to go to."

What's next: Artists have until 31 August to submit their designs for the hare sculptures.

How to get involved: For more information on the Hop to it! Suffolk art trail, visit www.stelizabethhospice.org.uk/hoptoitsuffolk