£18,000 has been raised over the past 5 years by Megan Baker Estate Agents in support of Age UK Isle of Wight’s annual campaign to combat loneliness.
Each December since 2016, Age UK Isle of Wight has teamed up with Megan Baker Estate Agents in an effort to raise awareness about local loneliness. Each year the campaign asks for support by either monetary donations or for donations of time and AgeUKIW’s befriending scheme asks for volunteer support for their Island wide befriending program.
Fundraising for the campaign is usually supported by AgeUKIW’s Christmas Film Festival at Cineworld, which sadly last year due to the pandemic was cancelled.
Whilst monetary donations were down for the year (£1,730 raised in December 2020), volunteer recruitment was at an all-time high with many residents coming forward to help the Good Neighbour Scheme to provide vital support with welfare and befriending calls and also shopping and medication delivery for older residents in need during our current lockdown.
All funds raised stay on the Island, helping Age UKIW to provide more support and companionship to older Island residents through its many social inclusion services.
Elisha Leachman, Age UKIW Fundraising Manager, has said:
“2020 saw the fifth year of the annual campaign and looking back, through the generosity of our amazing Island community and wonderfully supportive sponsors Megan Baker Estate Agents, we have been able to raise over £18,000 to date and have recruited many local volunteers to support such an important cause.
“I would like to remind everyone that now more than ever, no one should have no one – If you are lonely, your local Age UK Isle of Wight is here to support you and to please get in touch today”.
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Age UK Isle of Wight’s website www.ageukiw.org.uk hosts a ‘Loneliness Hub’ filled with information and advice about the many services that are available to support those in need. Alternatively, you can call them on 01983 525282 to find out more about how they can support you or a loved one.
Great charity choice, for the elderly unlike the young, don’t know all the ruses in gaining the max benefits or help and then some. Only the squeaky wheels get the oil now.
Well done all.