The results are in…
Charity is a fundamental part of the Sussex Bonfire tradition. Each year, EBS members select a local good cause to support, with donations collected on our Bonfire Night event shared with our chosen charity. To maximise community impact, we focus particularly on charities based in the local area, for whom even a small donation can make a huge difference.
Six local charities gave their time to come and speak at our March members meeting, following which, the decision was put to a vote. We are extremely pleased to announce that ManKind and WomanKind have been jointly chosen as our charity partners for 2026, our 25th anniversary year!
About ManKind
Mankind was set up in January 2020 by local Eastbourne-based friends Ian Pickard and Paul Roskilly to help support men who may need mental-health support or just someone to talk to without judgement.
Their aim is to provide a safe place for men to share how they are feeling without feeling judged and to support those who are struggling with their emotional and mental wellbeing.
Mankind meet face to face every Wednesday from 6.00-8.30pm in Eastbourne, and hold regular meetings in Hailsham and Heathfield too. For more information visit: https://mankindcic.co.uk/
About WomanKind
WomanKind are an informal support group for women who meet once a month at St Wilfrid’s Hospice run by Lisa Pickard and Fiona Collins
They are a supportive, welcoming mental health group for women. No pressure. No judgement. Just understanding, kindness and real conversation.
Whether you want to share or just sit and listen, you will be warmly welcomed. For more information visit: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576165195335
We’d once again like to extend our thanks to all six fantastic charities who presented their good cause to our members for consideration. They are all extremely worthy causes and we would like to use this platform to encourage the community to consider a donation or provide support.
Links to their respective websites can be found below:
