Handmade help for children

Rotarians across Geraldton are united in their efforts to raise awareness and funds for the Wheelchair for Kids program.

On Wednesday evening Rotarians across all clubs within the 9455 district attended a special meeting at RSL Birdwood House, with WFK chief executive and Rotarian Gordon Hudson updating members on the project.

The purpose of the program is to provide handmade wheelchairs for children living in third world countries.

Mr Hudson said the project was managed by the Rotary Club in Scarborough (in conjunction with Christian Brothers) with the wheelchairs built at a designated workshop in Wangara, just north of Perth.

Each wheelchair is fitted with straps and postural support and comes with a blanket, fitted tray, toolkit and even a soft toy.

With 170 volunteers lending their support to the cause, there are 350 wheelchairs made each month, with a total of 34,000 donated to over 70 countries so far.

“I’ve been involved with the WFK concept since its inception in 1998,” Mr Hudson said.

“Meetings like tonight are a great opportunity to promote our cause.

“Many Rotary clubs are very interested in our projects; I’d say around 200 Rotary clubs have already supported us.”

There is a waiting list for volunteers to assist, however Mr Hudson said he encouraged Rotarians or residents across Geraldton interested in the concept to get behind the project in any way possible.

Rotary Club of Geraldton member Di Gilleland said she was thrilled Mr Hudson could inform local members about the positive nature of the project.

“It’s great for us to have Rotary projects and the actual co-ordinator speak (to our members),” she said.

“These projects are phenomenal and it’s all about volunteers.”

If you would like to learn more about the Wheelchair for Kids program visit www.wheelchairsforkids.org.