Non event helps rake in £20k for vital charity
A Paisley- based charity that feared it wouldn’t survive the pandemic has been left overwhelmed as more than £ 20,000 of donations have poured in.
Bosses at Finding Your Feet, which was set up by Lochwinnoch woman Corinne Hutton in 2013, feared they would not be able to continue helping thousands of amputees across the country due to all fundraising events being cancelled.
In a bid to make up fundraising for a number of cancelled events that would have been vital in boosting the bank balance of the organisation, Corinne and her team launched an appeal for help.
The World’s Biggest Non Event has helped raise more than £20,000 for the charity, which is based in St James Street.
Corinne, who had both hands, and her legs below the knee amputated after contracting sepsis in 2012, insists she cannot thank people enough for their generosity.
She said: “Thanks to everyone who bought tickets knowing they would get absolutely nothing in return.
“It’s the most incredibly generous thing to do and our amputee troopers appreciate the kindness.”
The much- needed cash will help Corinne and her team continue to provide support to amputees throughout the country.
During the coronavirus pandemic, the charity has been forced to close its town centre headquarters.
However, staff have been able to keep their vital services running online to help people stay in touch and beat isolation.
Corinne added: “Lockdown has left most of us isolated, frustrated and scared. More so than most active, more able people are feeling.
“We’ve managed to get some of our club coaches to do online video links and live classes and at least we’re ‘seeing’ our friends there as well as trying to stay active and mentally well.
“We have at least one per day now, so everyone who is online can benefit and any who is not is getting phone calls from volunteers to make sure they’re OK.
“Our counsellor is particularly busy helping those really struggling.
“We understand things are tough for a lot of people, but if you’re saving on fuel, on nights out or expensive hairdos or nails, maybe pop a few quid into a charity in need, like Finding Your Feet.”
To donate to Finding Your Feet, go to www.findingyourfeet.net