COVID-19 has resulted in a huge increase in demand for guide dogs for the blind.

Amanda Halliday, the coordinator of community giving with the CNIB in the province, says demand has tripled since the onset of the pandemic. Adding to the crunch are travel restrictions and border closures, making it difficult to access dogs in the United States.

Brandon, an 18-year-old man, has lost most of his peripheral vision and has very little night vision due to retinitis pigmentosa. He graduated from high school in the spring and plans on attending Memorial in the fall. He is still on the waitlist for a guide dog.

“Wheels for Wishes” is an organization comprised of automobile enthusiasts who help raise money for the Guide Dog Program. Last year, they raised $50,000 for a “buddy Dog” for a young child, and this year’s goal is $50,000 for a guide Dog for Brandon.

There will be a car show on Saturday on Kelsey Drive to help raise money for the program. Over 100 vehicles are registered.

There is no admission fee but people are encouraged to make a donation. Anyone wishing to enter a vehicle can do so with a minimum fee of $20.

This Saturday! Fun for the whole family! Come see all the automobiles… hear live music… meet a Guide Dog and a couple Buddy Dogs!!

And of course, support @Wheels4WishesNL as they raise $50,000 for the @CNIB Guide Dog Program – helping people like Brandon get a Guide Dog! pic.twitter.com/pOQSAxU7s3

— Amanda Halliday (@flawedmom) August 12, 2021