The WightAID Foundation has reached the quarter of a million pounds mark in grants for Island-based charities and community groups — thanks to the help of Island businesses.

The foundation, which was set up in 2017 by chief executive Geoff Underwood, was established with the aim of evenly distributing funds to the Island's 1,500 voluntary groups.

To celebrate its third birthday, an afternoon tea took place at Caffé Isola.

Around 100 charities have already benefitted from the £294,000 raised.

In addition, 30 businesses have signed up to the WightAID Foundation, with all donations going directly towards charities and voluntary groups.

Businesses also carry out services such as printing, photography, marketing and PR free of charge.

Mr Underwood said: “We’re thrilled to have worked with so many businesses and charities to enable them to make such a difference in our local community.

“The fact this money is from the Island and going to the Island is incredibly important to me and to the trustees who helped me set up the foundation.

"The fact we can turn around grants so quickly each month, means the money gets to work faster, delivering more immediate results.

“I’d like to challenge local businesses to see how quickly, by working together, we can give £1 million pounds to our local community and see what kind of difference that can make.”

Illya Simpson, of Clear Advice Mortgage Services, one of the businesses involved, said: “As a local business it made absolute sense to me to get involved.

"I’m passionate about contributing to our local community but felt unable to choose between different causes.

“This way, I know a wide range of people will benefit and all our donations are going directly to them.

“I would definitely encourage more businesses to get involved. It doesn’t matter whether you have £100 or £10,000.”

Chair of the Isle of Wight Association of Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus (IWASBAH), Anne Axford, said: “We have benefitted from the support of local businesses through WightAid and this summer we were able to take 50-plus people to Tapnell Farm as part of our 50th anniversary celebrations.

“For many families, looking after a loved one with Spina Bifida can be very isolating.

"The funding for this event helped us to bring people together so they could meet others and enjoy a fantastic day out, for which we are extremely grateful.”

To get involved, contact the WightAID Foundation on 555915 or email admin@wightaid.org

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