Cambridgeshire churches and businesses help Light up Lives

A massive thank you to all the Cambridgeshire businesses, organisations and churches who are helping to raise awareness and vital funds for our Light up Lives appeal to prevent blindness in the world’s poorest places.

Several local organisations have committed to support the appeal including childcare provider Club 4 U and One Leisure in St Ives; St James’ Church, Hemingford Grey and Great St Mary’s Church in Cambridge; Diocese of Peterborough Mission and Ministry Centre and Michaelhouse Café and Centre in Cambridge; Cambridge Independent, Business Weekly and Cambridge 105 radio.    

Kirsty Smith, Chief Executive of CBM UK, says: 

“We’re so grateful for these amazing local partners who, even in these tough times are doing what they can to help people living in the poorest parts of the world. Worldwide, a shocking 3 out of 4 people who are blind don’t need to be – and we know that the situation with Coronavirus is making it even harder for people with sight problems to access treatment and support in most countries. But great local support from organisations and individuals here in Cambridgeshire and the UK government doubling all public donations to the Light up Lives appeal until 20^th May, really increases the chances that we’ll raise the funds to restore sight to thousands of people. A sight-restoring operation can cost as little as £24, but can truly light up someone’s life forever”.  

Tom Rawlings, Head of Service, Club 4 U says: 

“Club 4 U is pleased to be supporting CBM’s Light Up Lives appeal to help tackle avoidable blindness in low income countries. We wish CBM every success in their upcoming appeal.”  Head of Service, Club 4U, St Ives

Margaret Johnston, Great St Mary’s church, says: 

“We are proud to be partnering with CBM for their new Light Up Lives campaign to help restore sight and transform lives in the world’s poorest places, bringing new life and hope to so many.”  Margaret Johnston, Great St Mary’s church, Cambridge

In addition to this strong support from Cambridgeshire, several organisations from across the UK have also pledged to help Light up Lives. These include national Christian broadcaster Premier Christian Media and Cathedral Eye Clinic in Belfast.

Until 20^th May 2021, the UK government will double donations to our Light up Lives appeal up to £2 million, through its UK Aid Match scheme. Public donations will support CBM’s work preventing blindness and transforming lives wherever the need is greatest. Match funding from the UK government will improve access to eye-health services in Zimbabwe. 

To find out more or donate, visit www.lightuplives.net or phone 0800 567 7000.

Image: Dylan (7) and his mother at their home in Zimbabwe, after a successful cataract operation & glasses prescribed by CBM’s partner. ©CBM/Diemer