By Isle of Wight Observer
WightAID has celebrated its tenth birthday, with a champagne afternoon tea at Northwood House, as the charity approaches £1 million in donations to Island good causes.
Supporters and donors gathered for the celebration, which also saw new trustee, Dale Howarth, introduce – and a Tom Stroud video highlight – WightAID’s work.
The event launched a campaign encouraging Islanders to donate or fund-raise, to help WightAID reach the £1 million milestone by September 2027.
Since founder Geoff Underwood established WightAID in 2016, more than 300 Island good causes have received over £920,000.
Geoff said: “It was lovely to have all our supporters and trustees together in such a beautiful location, marking ten years of supporting Island charities and other groups.”
The celebration followed WightAID’s latest grant round, which saw six Island organisations receive more than £18,845.
The Getaway Foundation received the largest grant of £6,135 to provide respite breaks for Island families affected by poverty in 2027.
Two Generation CIC received £4,500 for its Homeshare initiative, while Independent Arts was awarded £3,210 for its Gallery Project.
The Disabled Sailors Association received £2,000 to support a sailing day for 20 disabled Island sailors, while £1,000 was awarded towards an Island celebration marking 70 years of the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.
Ventnor Carnival Association also received funding towards its Heritage Day.