COLLEAGUES from Specsavers are hoping to raise over £3,000 for Missing People, a charity that supports families facing the trauma of a missing loved one, following their 10-mile sponsored walk that took place on Thursday 20 April.
Their charity feat is part of a Walking in Hope campaign that was launched earlier this year by Missing People to support their 30th Anniversary. The charity is hoping to raise over £30,00 in 2023, an amount that could help pay the annual salary of a support worker to assist families in need.
Missing People has asked for organisations to walk in solidarity with those affected and Specsavers was more than happy to put its best foot forward. Keen to support the worthy cause, the team of 34 colleagues from one of Specsavers’ UK Head Offices based at Whiteley clocked up 10-miles as they trekked around the Hamble River loop from Bursledon.
Tina Christison, group CRM and analytics director from Specsavers Head Office in Whiteley volunteers for the charity and is only too aware of growing pressures faced by the charity to help as many people as possible.
Tina says: ‘I see first-hand what an amazing service Missing People offers to families in need, both within our community and further afield across the UK.
‘Sadly, it’s a service that is in high demand. Many people are shocked to hear that someone is reported missing every 90 seconds in the UK. Missing People offers a lifeline to the 170,000 people who run away and go missing each year and provides invaluable support for those left behind.
‘When I discussed the Walking in Hope campaign with my colleagues, I was overwhelmed by their support. I am so proud to have walked with 33 other team members at my side to do our bit to raise awareness and needed funds.’
To date, the team has raised over £2,000 and is hoping to hit their £3,000 in the coming weeks. Tina adds: ‘It’s not too late to make a donation, however small, to support this amazing cause.’
To donate, see: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/gcespecsavers