Dudley councillor backs Old Tom’s Doughnuts fundraiser for young cancer patient
Councillor Shaukat Ali, representing St Thomas’s Ward and Deputy Leader of the Labour Group, has offered his wholehearted support to Old Tom’s Doughnuts. The much-loved local business launched a heartwarming community fundraiser last month to mark the eighth birthday of Rowley Regis youngster Amelia Kolpa, who is bravely battling stage 4 neuroblastoma.
Tomorrow (March 3), Old Tom’s Donuts will donate every penny of the day’s takings to Birmingham Children’s Hospital in Amelia’s name, helping to support the specialist care she continues to receive.
The fundraiser, led by owner Mr Peter Westwood, has already inspired a wave of kindness across the community, raising more than £300 so far. The doughnut van is also acting as a collection point, with bright pink donation buckets inviting residents to give what they can.
Councillor Ali praised the heartfelt effort: “This is a truly generous and compassionate gesture from Old Tom’s Donuts and from Peter personally. Donating a full day’s takings is an extraordinary act of kindness, and I would encourage everyone across Dudley to stop by tomorrow, buy a treat, and show their support for Amelia and her family. Every contribution, big or small, will help make a difference.”
The campaign has also helped Amelia achieve her birthday dream of receiving 8,000 cards a goal that has been surpassed many times over, with more than 160,000 cards arriving from across the UK and beyond.
Peter Westwood, himself a cancer survivor, said Amelia’s story touched him deeply: “I am incredibly grateful for the support people have shown already. Let’s make this a truly special day for Amelia. The kindness from the people of Dudley and further afield has been overwhelming. Please come along, donate if you can, and help us turn Dudley pink for Amelia.”
Residents are invited to take part by:
Visiting Old Tom’s Donuts March 3
Making a donation at the van
Wearing pink to help “Turn Dudley Pink” in Amelia’s honour
Councillor Ali added: “This is what makes Dudley such a special place, neighbours, businesses, and families coming together to lift up a young girl and her loved ones during an unimaginably difficult time. I am proud to stand with this campaign and with everyone supporting Amelia. Lets give it a big push on 3rd to raise as much as possible.”
