Ford Ireland has announced that its 'Drive 4 UR Community' campaign raised €26,310 on behalf of Irish Guide Dogs.
Over five weekends in September and October, Ford donated €30 for every test drive taken at Drive 4 UR Community events over the country. Sheils Galway participated in the event, with over 877 test drives taking place over those weekends.
Irish Guide Dogs supports close to 400 guide and assistance dog partnerships across Ireland. These guide and assistance dogs empower people who are visually impaired and the families of children with autism to live with greater independence and confidence.
Chief executive of Irish Guide Dogs, Tim O'Mahony said that having a guide or assistance dog is "simply life changing".
"With thanks to the ongoing generosity and commitment of supporters like Ford Ireland, we can continue training more dogs, expanding our reach, and ensuring that no one is left waiting for the independence, mobility and companionship these extraordinary dogs provide," he added.
Despite initiatives such as Drive 4 UR Community pulling in much needed funds, the need continues to grow with many more people waiting for the chance to experience the life changing impact of a guide or assistance dog. Continued support and partnerships are vital to meeting the growing demand.
