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Harrogate charity launch fundraising campaign for new wheelchair minibus

Wednesday, 4 October 2023 10:00

Yorkshire disability charity Open Country is aiming to secure the required funding for a new wheelchair minibus by Christmas.

Harrogate charity launch fundraising campaign for new wheelchair minibus A Harrogate-based charity has launched a fundraising campaign in the hope of securing a new wheelchair minibus. Open Country allows people with disabilities to enjoy outdoor activities whilst providing a platform for them to socialise and form friendships with other members. But the charity is in need of a new minibus to continue its mission to provide outdoor initiatives and days out for disabled individuals. A spokesperson for Open Country said:

“This new minibus will play a pivotal role in enhancing the organisation's ability to continue its mission of fostering outdoor experiences and social inclusion for individuals with disabilities. “These activities provide a unique opportunity for people with disabilities to engage in outdoor experiences that they might otherwise miss out on.”
[caption id="attachment_81477" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] An outing for disabled members provided by Open Country.[/caption] The charity has already received the backing of Yorkshire-born Paralympic champion Hannah Cockroft OBE. She said:
“Yorkshire has incredible outdoor spaces that everyone should have the opportunity to appreciate and enjoy. “Open Country are ensuring that Yorkshire's beauty really can be explored by everyone, by making those activities accessible. “For many people though, transport is the biggest barrier to accessing these areas and Open Country removes that by providing travel and activities. “Any money raised can help these days go ahead and help everyone in Yorkshire have equal access to everything that our County has to offer.”
[caption id="attachment_81476" align="aligncenter" width="523"] Hannah Cockroft OBE is backing Open Country's fundraising campaign.[/caption] David Shaftoe, Chief Officer of Open Country, said:
"Thank you in advance for supporting us. We really appreciate your generosity and dedication to our cause. “Your contributions play a vital role in our ongoing mission to make the great outdoors available to all, particularly those in our community living with disabilities. “Your kindness and support serve as a great inspiration to us, and we are truly grateful for your commitment to fostering social connections and enabling outdoor experiences. “Together, we are creating a meaningful impact, ensuring no one is excluded. We extend our heartfelt thanks for joining us on this journey and embracing our vision of inclusivity and joy.”
If you're interested in supporting Open Country's cause and helping them raise the necessary funds, you can visit their Crowdfunding page here. Alternatively, contact Netty Newell at community@opencountry.org.uk or on 01423 507227. Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.

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