WightAID, a new locally based foundation created to support charities on the Isle of Wight has been officially launched this week and has already made donations to 6 charities.
Local business leaders gathered to celebrate the launch of The Wight AID Foundation (WightAID) at Albert Cottage in East Cowes yesterday (Wednesday).
WightAID raises funds from businesses operating on the Island, and distributes it to a range of charities and good causes on the Isle of Wight.
The charity is a new initiative spearheaded by Geoff Underwood, owner of local technology firm IFPL and President of the Chamber of Commerce. WightAID’s trustees are all local business leaders: Bestival founder Rob da Bank, Claire Willis, Brian Marriott, Steve Porter, Sue Lucas and Nick Hessey.
Geoff said:
“We set up WightAID because we believe that the local business community wants to play a greater role in supporting Island causes. And that more would do so if the process was straightforward. It is now possible for companies to support the whole range of local charities and community groups by making one donation to WightAID. By combining our resources we can achieve a great deal more for the Island.”
Thanks to initial donations to WightAID from IFPL, Westridge Limited and Rouse Limited, the charity was able to make its first grants to 6 local organisations at the launch. Aspire Ryde; The Bus Shelter; West Wight Sports and Leisure Centre; Cowes Sailability Club; 1st Shanklin Scout Group and Gift to Nature all received cheques for £500 on the day.
Carol Harvey of 1st Shanklin Scout Group said:
“The support from WightAID will enable us to help young people enjoy adventures and have the opportunity to reach their full potential”.
The trustees expect to make the next distribution of funds in November, with a deadline for applications by the 31st October. More information about how to support WightAID, and how to apply for a grant can be found on the new website www.wightaid.org.
