We recognise that our Fragile X community will have experienced particular challenges as a result of the pandemic, and we are here every step of the way to keep you up to date and support you on our helpline.
Equally, the coming months will also bring new challenges to our charity, as we balance an increase in demand with a more difficult fundraising climate. If you are in a position to do so, we have put together this blog with some simple suggestions as to how you can support the Fragile X Society over the coming weeks and months.
Give as you Shop Online
Did you know that whenever you buy anything online - even your weekly shop - you could be raising funds for the Fragile X Society at no cost to you? All you need to do is to start your shopping via the EasyFundraising website. Further details are available here.
Those of you who use Amazon, also make sure that you choose us as your charity via Amazon Smile, now also available on the Amazon App.
Having a sort out? Turn your unwanted items into donations
We know that being at home can mean extra time for doing some sorting. If you have unwanted items, why not sell them to raise money for the Fragile X Society? (There's even a hashtag: #DeclutterAndDonate)
Ziffit is a free web service that instantly values books, games, DVDs and CDs and generates cash quickly – which can be donated directly! Find out more here.
For other items, you can choose to donate the total or a proportion of the sale of your item to The Fragile X Society on Ebay for Charity.
Virtual sporting challenges
As organised sporting events make a gradual return, there is also a range of virtual challenges available to take part in, or why not create your own!
We have been inspired hearing stories of people taking on challenges such as running marathons around their back garden (7000 laps!).
To make things easier, you can now link your Strava account to your JustGiving page so people can keep track of your challenge and you can show your dedication to your fundraising!
Get creative, make your own challenge at home!
We are sure that many of you will be able to come up with weird and wonderful ideas, but here are some examples that we love!
We love the online Charity Quiz Nights that have been taking off (I did the Gavin and Stacey one with my family the other night... it was cracking). Why not organise your own (for instance, via Zoom), collecting a donation or sign up cost for the Fragile X Society?
Are you braving the lockdown home haircut (or even going full buzzcut)? Why not consider turning it into a fundraiser, just like Ava and Ella with their hair donation!
As we gather with friends virtually rather than face to face, why not all pledge what you would have spent on a coffee and a piece of cake to the Fragile X Society during a virtual coffee morning?
Become a Friend of Fragile X
Friends of Fragile X is a way you can support the Society through regular monthly donations. This regular support is vital, especially in this uncertain and challenging time for small charities like ours. If you are in a position to do so, please consider becoming a Friend.
Finally, if you are in a position to do something to support us at this time, please let us know as we would love to thank you and share your inspiring fundraising story! But, most of all, please remember that we are here to support you at the end of the phone (01371875100) or email (info@fragilex.org.uk).