Rochford charity for the blind gets cash boost

Published by SanH for Sanctuary Housing Association in Communities

A charity which produces audio recordings of local news for residents with sight problems has been awarded a share of £5,000, thanks to Rochford Housing.

Rayleigh, Rochford & Castle Point (RRCP) Talking Newspapers for the Blind has been given nearly £1,000 from Rochford Housing’s Maureen’s Gift funding scheme.  The money will go towards buying new equipment, helping the charity’s volunteers support even more blind and partially-sighted residents across the district.

Talking Newspapers is one of a handful of community groups across Rochford to benefit from Maureen’s Gift.  Set up in 2009, the scheme supports charities, resident groups and voluntary organisations in need of funds to help deliver activities within the local community.

Formerly known as the Rochford Community Chest Fund, the funding pot was re-named Maureen’s Gift last year in memory of local community champion and former Rochford Housing board member, Maureen Vince.  

Janet Berry, treasurer of RRCP Talking Newspapers and one of the charity’s 30 volunteers, said: “It is relatively easy for people with sight problems to access national and international news, but it’s often difficult for them to keep up to date with local news. 

“The funds will enable us to buy a machine capable of copying 12 USB sticks at once in a very short time.  These are then sent out to all our listeners. 

“What makes the donation even more special is that Maureen Vince was a supporter of the charity – this is a very fitting way to remember her.”

Emma Keegan, managing director of Rochford Housing, added: “Being able to help this kind of project is exactly what Maureen’s Gift was set up for.  A relatively small amount of money can make a real difference and in this case ensure those with sight difficulties can keep abreast of what’s going on locally.”

With the application process open until 30^th March 2012, Rochford Housing has set aside £5,000 for projects across the district. 

To apply or find out more, contact the Rochford Housing office quoting Maureen’s Gift on either 0300 123 3514 or 0800 012 1991.  Alternatively, email contactus@sanctuary-housing.co.uk.