Charity challenges for Eye Week

Supporters of Vision Care for Homeless People (VCHP) are gearing up for some challenges starting on Monday 19 September to coincide with the beginning of National Eye Health Week.

“It is a great opportunity for fundraising with a challenge – we have something for everyone,” said Alison Gordon of the UK charity.

“The virtual Coast to Coast 171-mile trek across the country is the target for us to get everyone in optics moving. It might be walking, cycling or running but it can all be completed via Strava individually or as a team. The route from the Cumbrian coast to North Yorkshire coast has some challenging hills and beautiful landscapes. We are looking for participants to raise £1 for each mile they cover. Apart from raising funds, this is a great way to reach out to people who may not know anything about the work that VCHP does.”

Alongside this, a Healthy Eyes cake sale and coffee morning – using ingredients that support good vision – is aimed at students returning to university, businesses getting back to the office, and optical practices looking for ways to engage with their local community.

For anyone who is too busy to organise an event for National Eye Health Week, the charity is suggesting using 10 October as World Homeless Day.

“This is another great talking point and an opportunity to throw a spotlight on the plight of people who are living in the worst possible way, here in the UK,” explained Alison. “All funds raised go directly to helping those who need help. It may be just a sight test and pair of ready readers but sometimes it is the start to seeing a better future,.”

Find out more about the challenges on the VCHP website, or contact Alison at alison.gordon@vchp.org.uk