MERKUR Casino has contributed £2,025 to Bristol-based charity Ripples of Compassion as part of its MERKUR Community programme, supporting families affected by childhood cancer and life-limiting conditions.
Founded in 2018 by Fiona Corless in memory of her daughter Ripley Olive Corless, who passed away from Acute Myeloid Leukaemia at just two years old, Ripples of Compassion provides social, emotional, and mental health support to parents, carers, and families navigating the challenges of childhood illness and bereavement. The charity has experienced a significant increase in demand for its services, with a 226% rise since 2020. Alongside this, rising living costs have further impacted the charity’s operational expenses.
MERKUR’s donation will assist the organisation in delivering free support services to hospitals, hospices, and other charities, ensuring children, parents, and siblings receive critical aid. The funding will enable the charity to purchase 350 activity and self-care boxes, 40 books to establish two bereavement libraries, and up to 10 keepsakes for families who have lost a child.
This contribution is part of the wider MERKUR Community initiative, launched in January 2024, which aims to support non-profit organisations, clubs, and events in local communities where the company operates. MERKUR’s commitment to corporate social responsibility is reflected in its engagement with local groups to identify meaningful ways to make a positive impact. Since its inception, the MERKUR Initiative, funded by the company and voluntary customer donations, has provided £163,282.45 to 77 different causes across the UK.
Fiona Corless, founder and chair of Ripples of Compassion, said: “We are very thankful for MERKUR’s donation. The demand for our services continues to grow, and every contribution helps us extend our support to more families in need. Thanks to MERKUR, we can bring comfort to those facing the hardest moments of their lives. The funding will allow us to create more self-care boxes, bereavement libraries and keepsakes – each one bringing a little light to families during their darkest times. Every item we provide is a tangible reminder that they are not alone, that people care, and that their loved ones will always be remembered. The impact of this donation will be felt by so many families, helping them process their grief and find moments of solace amidst their pain.”
Commenting on the donation, Mark Schertle, chief operating officer of MERKUR Casino UK, said: “At MERKUR, we believe in giving back to the communities we serve, especially when it comes to supporting those who are facing some of life’s most heartbreaking challenges.
“Ripples of Compassion provides an invaluable service to families navigating grief and loss, ensuring they have the emotional and practical support they need at a time when they need it most. Their services provide real, tangible support that makes a difference in people’s lives and we’re glad that our donation will help create resources that bring some comfort and healing to families. Through MERKUR Initiative, we aim to create meaningful partnerships with organisations that make a real difference like Ripples of Compassion does.”
