Sight for Wight is launching its new annual fundraiser – asking people to cycle the Wight to help local’s sight.
Sight for Wight is the Island’s oldest working Charity dating back to 1865, even predating the RNIB. The charity provides support to Island residents living with sight loss to help them live safely, independently and confidently.
With just under 950 people living with severe sight loss and a further 6,500 people living with failing sight, the charity is a real lifeline for people providing 1-to-1 support where and when it is needed.
For the new fundraising campaign, Coronation Champion Ruth Hollingshead will be with staff and volunteers at the launch event this Saturday (17th June) at ASDA, Newport from 09:30.
Sight for Wight is asking for people to cycle enough miles to represent every single person living on the Island with profound sight loss – that’s 932 miles to represent 932 Islanders.
Each cyclist is being asked to gain sponsorship to raise vital funds for the charity or, for example, cycle to work and donate the petrol money they save! They are looking for as many people as possible to join the fundraiser.
Sight for Wight want to make this as fully inclusive as they can so for those who may not feel safe cycling out, they have set up 2 static bikes for people to use which will start at ASDA this Saturday and then move to the charity centre at Millbrooke House in Newport from Monday to Friday next week.
Keen to make this an annual event, Lisa Hollyhead, CEO, said:
“Recognising how many people live with profound sight loss here on the Island is part of the aim of our event and sadly, year on year, this number will rise; it is in fact predicted to rise by 25% in the next 5 years. Here at Sight for Wight we must fundraise to support our members and we are hoping this event will kick start our 2023/2024 campaign in a very significant way.”
Ruth Hollingshead, Trustee and herself a Guide Dog user, said:
“The services the Charity provides are simply vital, they range from 1-to-1 home assessments with advice and loan equipment, weekly social, craft and sporting activities and, most importantly, a willing ear to listen. Losing your sight is 1 of the biggest “living losses” anyone lives with and Sight for Wight’s sole aim is to help you, as an individual, receive the right help at the right time.”
The charity has already received pledges of sponsorship and support but there is still time to join in. You can visit their Facebook page or email [email protected] for a sponsorship form. Alternatively, you can visit their website and make a donation directly under the fundraising tabor through their JustGiving page.
