|
 | about Bupa | press releases
Eye hopes for specs appeal
8 October 2003
A team of eight from Bupa’s graduate management entry programme are asking the people of Bristol to increase their ‘specs appeal’ by donating unwanted spectacles to a new campaign. The glasses will be sent to help poor and disadvantaged people in Thailand and the team is hoping to collect 5,000 pairs.
The appeal is part of the Wan Kaew project which provides eye tests and glasses for people who cannot afford them. Anyone who would like to donate a pair can find collection buckets and special representatives in place at various Bupa sites across the UK until October 17.
Graduate team member Katherine Miles who recently returned from a four month work placement at Bupa Blue Cross in Thailand said: “I was involved with the project while I was there. It helps to improve the quality of life for thousands of people who would have missed out on school or a job because of their eyesight.”
The Wan Kaew project aims to help more than 30,000 people in the rural and more deprived parts of Thailand and donations from the public have already made an impact. Monica Owen, Bupa Community Connections, added: “A lot of people have pairs of glasses that they don’t want lying around at home. Most items can be put to good use whether they’re sunglasses, frames, lenses or pairs of glasses.”
The appeal has been organised in conjunction with Bupa colleagues in Thailand and Community Connections, a Bupa initiative which develops volunteering schemes and projects to help good causes. All donations will be gratefully accepted.
|
