Two UK fundraising events backed by the gaming industry have raised a combined £50,000 for CHIPS Charity, enough to fund at least six bespoke powered wheelchairs for young people with serious mobility needs.
The larger contribution came from the charity's annual golf day at Woburn Golf Club in September. According to the event report, 111 golfers representing 17 companies raised more than £41,000. A group of 20 runners then added £9,000 after completing the Royal Parks Half Marathon in October.
CHIPS funds specialist powered wheelchairs tailored to each recipient rather than standard mobility equipment. Its fundraising page says the Woburn tournament is the charity's main annual event and that wheelchairs have previously been presented to young recipients at the venue.
The half-marathon effort included participants from WorldGaming, Genting UK, Better Change, the Betting and Gaming Council, Game Nation and Metropolitan Casinos. Earlier coverage of the runners said the event would fund another chair and move CHIPS closer to its 800th presentation.
CHIPS reports that it has raised more than £4.5 million since it was founded by members of the gaming industry. The charity says its trustees work without claiming expenses, leaving donated money available for wheelchair purchases. The latest total combines completed fundraising rather than pledges for a future campaign.
