Volunteers sought for Blind Foundation’s collection
October is a special opportunity for the Hawke’s Bay region to show its support towards those who are blind or have low vision.
The Blind Foundation is putting out the call for people to sign up as volunteers for the nationwide Blind Week street collection on October 26-27.
Lesley Bott has been co-ordinating the Blind Week collection for nearly four years and she won’t be stopping anytime soon.
“For me it’s a way to show my appreciation to a cause that helps so many people. Sight is something we tend to take for granted and it’s not until it fails us that we really appreci- ate having it. The Blind Foundation does an amazing job supporting people of all ages who face the adversity of vision impairment or blindness.
“Not only do they have skilled staff who are there to support but also have many resources to make life as simple as possible on a daily basis.”
Bott says the people of Hawke’s Bay are extremely generous.
“I’m always blown away at how much support we receive. All of our collectors carry cards that have a number to text to if you don’t have any cash, just ask any of our volunteers and they will happily give you a card so you can still contribute.”
Collectors will be out and about in Napier, Hastings and Havelock North.
“Volunteering to be a collector is a really rewarding thing to do and we are so grateful to all of our wonderful team of volunteers of all ages who are there to help us.” Bott says it will be a first time for many when it comes to volunteering, but there are others who have been doing it for years.
“Last year I had a young mother and her 7-year-old son who collected for the first time.
“Mum wanted her son to appreciate that not everyone in life is able to do the things we take for granted. They both really enjoyed it and want to do it again. I also have teenagers who are working towards a community badge for school or Scouts so anyone is welcome to help out.”
Those who wish to assist can visit blindfoundation.org.nz and follow the link to sign up.