Dentaid launches 32km virtual fundraising challenge

Dentaid has launched a 32km virtual fundraising challenge as demand for the charity’s services continues to soar.

Supporters are being asked to run, cycle, walk or even skip 32km - either in one go or over several days – at home, in the garden or their local area. Everyone who takes part will pay a £40 participation fee, which includes a medal and a vital contribution to Dentaid’s work, and no sponsorship is required.

“Sadly, the third lockdown has again hampered our fundraising programme but that doesn’t stop you from joining in at home or as part of your daily exercise,” said the charity’s events fundraiser, Kelle Russell. “And since adults typically have 32 teeth, we thought that one kilometre per tooth was a great way to start this virtual fundraising challenge. Or it’s 20 miles if that makes it sound more manageable!”

Since the pandemic hit, Dentaid has seen a steady increase in requests for dental clinics for homeless and vulnerable people across the UK. The charity’s mobile dental units visit soup kitchens, night shelters and hostels with volunteers providing emergency dental treatments, oral cancer screening and dental health advice. Regular clinics are also taking place at Dewsbury Dental Centre for vulnerable people in the community who are struggling to access dental care.

Although the pandemic means that Dentaid is unable to send volunteer teams to work alongside its overseas partners, the charity is continuing to fund outreach clinics and send equipment to dentists working in poor and remote locations. At New Year, Dentaid’s Ugandan associates treated 99 people and gave oral health advice to many more at clinics held in Iyolwa and Kiyeyi – an area that 20 miles away from the nearest dental services.

“We are determined to carry on our work – helping as many people as possible to access safe, emergency dental care and oral health advice,” added Kelle. “Sadly, the latest lockdown again means that we’ve had to postpone fundraising events and make changes but the 32km challenge is a simple, safe and fun way for people to fundraise for Dentaid at this crucial time for our charity.” To sign up and pay your £40 registration fee – which includes a medal – visit Fundraising - Dentaid