The World Para Powerlifting Organization (WPPO) is partnering with the charity organization Kit Us Out to donate brand new singlets and tracksuits to developing countries that qualify for the 2021 Paralympic Games. Qualifying countries can apply to receive singlets and tracksuits through this “Uniform Programme” by filling out a survey. A completed survey does not guarantee applicants any equipment, but athletes representing eligible countries must submit a completed survey by July 2, 2021, to be considered.
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Kit Us Out Organization
Kit Us Out was founded in 2012 by Alex Mitchell and Dermot Keaney after they volunteered at the 2012 London Paralympic Games. According to Kit Us Out’s website, they “noticed that a number of the world-class athletes competing for developing nations had little or no kit to compete with” while waiting for a train at the King’s Cross underground station.
Their mission is the following:
To empower as many athletes as possible to compete fairly, equipped with the kit they need.
They were able to organize quickly enough to provide gear to “over 60 athletes from 16 nations” at the 2012 Paralympic Games. They have since provided athletes with kits at the following events:
- 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games
- 2016 Rio Paralympic Games
- 2017 World Para Championships
- 2019 Para Powerlifting World Championships
- Friday Night Football Project in Waltham Forest
Additionally, in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, Kit Us Out distributed “over 1,000 items of kit…to hospitals and other health and wellbeing teams across London.” In total, Kit Us Out has donated over 32,000 pieces of kit to more than 60 nations.
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Kit Us Out Goals
Kit Us Out has stated the following as their donation goals:
- 10,000 sports tops
- 10,000 shorts and bottoms
- 8,000 sports shoes
- 5,000 sports bras
The process used is simple. Kit Us Out receives donations to acquire kits, which they then deliver to those in need. Those who wish to make a donation to Kit Us Out can do so via Just Giving.
Editor’s Note: BarBend is an official media provider for World Para Powerlifting. The two organizations maintain editorial independence unless otherwise noted on specific content projects.
Featured image: @parapowerlifting on Instagram