STAFF at Headway have been ‘overwhelmed’ by everyone’s generosity after thousands of pounds worth of fishing and archery equipment was stolen from the charity’s Rednal base.
The organisation, which supports brain injured people across the Midlands, launched a SOS – Save Our Sports online appeal to raise £4,000 to replace the items following the break-in at the start of the month.
The fund-raising page is now up to £900 and Coun Peter McDonald, who represents nearby Rubery, has pledged to give £1,500 from his Worcestershire County Council Divisional Fund.
The Angling Trust, which helped Headway purchase the fishing gear in the first place, has circulated details of the theft throughout the wider fishing communities and the charity has since been contacted by many people offering to donate their spare equipment.
Alvechurch Fisheries, the venue used by Headway for its fishing sessions in recent years, has also offered its support.
Headway’s brain injured clients use both sports to help with their rehabilitation and, because of their disabilities, need specially-adapted equipment to use.
The cash will pay for equipment which can then be used with the donated items.
Headway Birmingham and Solihull CEO Sue Tyler said: “We have been overwhelmed with people’s generosity since the theft.
“The response so far has been amazing and will go a long way in helping us resume our fishing sessions and other sporting activities once we can do so safely.”
Coun McDonald pledged his cash after reading about the burglary in the Standard.
He said: “Headway is the only organisation in the area that provides a rehabilitation service for those suffering from brain injuries.
“It ensures there can be life after brain injury.
“Hopefully the donation will ensure it carries on its valuable work.”
The charity is looking to re-open its brain injury centres at the earliest opportunity, but will continue providing welfare calls, doorstep visits and online information and sessions to ensure the health and wellbeing of its clients in the meantime.
Visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fund/saveoursports to boost the fund further or go to headway-bs.org.uk for more on the charity.
