$600,000 Christmas present for Guide Dog Services!

22 December 2004

$600,000 Christmas present for Guide Dog Services!

Christmas comes early for the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind (RNZFB) with a legacy of around $600,000 for Guide Dog Services.

The bequest will equal the cost of breeding, raising, training and matching a total of 26 guide dogs to blind and vision impaired New Zealanders.

Legacies are vital for our continued operation, says Paula Daye, RNZFB Chief Executive.

And as Guide Dog Services receives no government funding at all, this generous bequest is even more appreciated.

Maureen Kuiper, who passed away in September, felt that Guide Dog Services provided a valuable service and was aware of the high cost of guide dogs - totaling around $22,500 each.

Maureen was a very generous woman who wanted to help a worthwhile and essential cause. Guide Dog Services was the perfect choice, says close friend, Bruce Jackson.

With limited government support the RNZFB has to raise at least $15 million a year from bequests, donations and sponsorships to cover the more than $21 million it costs to provide essential services and support for blind and vision-impaired New Zealanders.

ENDS

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