charity support – Page 7 – The NEN

Big Hearts break records as they raise £21,115 at annual fundraising Gala

Big Hearts, the official charity of Heart of Midlothian FC, raised £21,115 at the Big Hearts Gala at Tynecastle on Saturday 9 September.

The Big Hearts Gala is one of the biggest fundraising events in the charity’s calendar, and this year they have raised more than ever before, with all money going towards helping them to support people in their community.

The amount raised at this year’s Gala is double the amount of than last year.

Guests at the glittering event got a valuable insight into Big Hearts’ vital work across the community.

They learned about the That’s Me! group, which aims to make a positive impact on teenagers and young adults, aged 12 to 18, who could benefit from wellbeing support.

On top of this, guests were in the presence of legends as Paul Hartley, Darren Barr and Mark de Vries were all present in the Gorgie Suite as guest speakers.

The Big Hearts Gala is a celebration of the power of the club’s badge in changing lives in communities across south west Edinburgh.

As well as the funds raised from over 250 tickets sold, there were live and silent auctions, in which signed Hearts shirts, golf days and hotel stays were auctioned.

Craig Wilson, CEO at Big Hearts, said: “We are over the moon to have raised £21,115 at the Big Hearts Gala this year.

“It is one of our biggest fundraising efforts and I’m grateful to everyone who bought tickets and took part in our auctions.

“The money raised will go a long way in our mission to help improve the lives of people in our community.”

Fans at the Gala were delighted to meet three Hearts legends. Brian Chapman shared shared his excitement after hearing some of their stories.

“I am too young to have seen Mark de Vries play, but I was lucky enough to see Paul Hartley play. It was a really good moment to get a picture with him and actually see him in-front of my own eyes.

“I took part in the Hampden to Tynecastle charity walk and, along with three friends, raised £2500 for Big Hearts. I am here tonight to continue to show support after that.

“The charity does a lot of good work, and as we’ve heard tonight, poverty in Gorgie is among the highest in Edinburgh.”

Mark de Vries is fondly remembered by Hearts fans for his four goals on his debut against Hibs. He was glad to be back in Gorgie.

“It has been great to be back in Edinburgh and back at Tynecastle” he said.

“I loved my time here, so it has been an honour to come back as a guest of Big Hearts.

“I have been made to feel so welcome and it has been amazing to learn about the work of Big Hearts.”

Big Hearts is the only non-profit organisation based at the home of Heart of Midlothian FC.

The charity delivers free activities for adults and children to improve outcomes around mental health, social isolation and promote equal opportunities.

It costs Big Hearts over £600,000 each year to build and deliver programmes and services to the communities living in the surroundings of Tynecastle Park, one of the most disadvantaged wards of Edinburgh.

Scotmid colleagues across Edinburgh help raise £295,000 for Guide Dogs

Scotmid colleagues across Edinburgh have helped raise an incredible total of £295,000 for Guide Dogs following the retailer’s year-long charity partnership.

The money raised will help support people across Edinburgh living with sight loss by training two Guide Dog Mobility Specialists and three Habilitation Specialists, as well as setting a whole litter of puppies off on their journey to become future life-changers for people affected by sight loss in our community.

[Pictured L-R: Shirley MacGillivray, Scotmid, Kyla McVicar & Bruce, Guide Dogs, John Brodie, Scotmid, Aileen Murphy & Breeze, Guide Dogs, Linda Jordan, Guide Dogs, Norrie Bainbridge & Kano, Guide Dogs, Jim Watson, Scotmid]

Scotmid and Guide Dogs are celebrating their paw-sitively perfect charity partnership, which has raised £295,000 to support people across Edinburgh living with sight loss

Scotmid colleagues, customers and members in Edinburgh have taken the lead in fundraising for the community retailer’s barkingly brilliant charity companion. Funds have been raised through a range of activities, including in-store raffles, physical challenges, bingo nights, and community events

The funds raised will make a significant difference by training two Guide Dog Mobility Specialists and three Habilitation Specialists, as well as setting a whole litter of puppies off on their journey to become future life-changers for people affected by sight loss in local communities

The success of the charity partnership is testament to the impact that collective efforts can achieve. Through the generosity and dedication of Scotmid and its supporters, countless lives will be positively transformed.

Amazon support for Curly Star Dream Foundation

The Amazon fulfilment centre in Dunfermline has made a £1,000 donation to a suicide and bereavement support charity in Fife.

The Curly Star Dream Foundation was set up by the family of Candice Easton, who sadly died by suicide in 2005. The charity supports those who are suffering from suicidal thoughts, or those who have lost someone to suicide, by hosting mental health advice workshops.

The donation will be put towards a future project, working with staff and pupils in local primary schools.

Speaking on the donation, Jamie Strain, General Manager at Amazon in Dunfermline, said: “The Curly Star Dream Foundation is an amazing charity that provides essential support to grieving families and to those who are suffering from mental health problems.

“I am glad that we can make this donation to support its work.”

Jackie Easton, Chair of The Curly Star Dream Foundation, said: “I would like to say thank you to Jamie and the Amazon team in Dunfermline for this donation.

“This support will allow us to continue providing vital support to those who are struggling with their mental health or are grieving the loss of a loved one.”

The donation to The Curly Star Dream Foundation was made as part of Amazon’s programme to support the communities in and around its operating locations across the UK.

Thorntons launches Cash for Kids charity wills campaign to support vulnerable children and families

Leading Scottish law firm Thorntons has launched its latest charity wills fundraising drive in support of Cash for Kids, with the aim of making a difference to young lives and supporting families who often have nowhere else to go.

Taking place across its offices in Edinburgh, Fife, Dundee, Perth and, Angus, Thorntons waives its usual fee for creating wills throughout the month of September, asking clients to instead make an equivalent donation to the charity.

Thorntons has raised more than £600,000 for Cash for Kids since it launched the initiative 27 years ago, with its 2022 campaign delivering £37,500 for local groups and individuals.

Two young boys were among the recipients with one nine-year-old being gifted a Trekinetic GTE powered wheelchair offering independence and a new quality of life as it allows him to take his dog to the beach while another young boy with Neurofibromatosis type 1 and autism is now the proud owner of a mega sonic bed for safe sleeping.

Emma Kemp, Regional Charity Manager at Cash for Kids said: “We can’t begin to thank everyone at Thorntons and their clients enough for their continued support. Their charity wills campaign is a huge fundraising initiative for us at Cash for Kids and without it we would not be able to help as many local children in need of our support as we do.

“Having a will in place is so very important, so if you need to make a will, have it updated or make changes now is the time to do it. Make your will this September with Thorntons and help your local children at the same time.”

Murray Etherington, Partner and Head of Wills, Trusts and Succession planning at Thorntons said: “As the cost of living crisis continues, the work that Cash for Kids does to provide families with basic essentials such as food, toiletries and clothing, has never been more important and we’re proud to support this fantastic charity once again this year.

“By making a will with us in September, you’ll not only be looking after the future of your family but also helping to support some of the most vulnerable families and children in your local area.

“Some people fail to make a will because they think they don’t need one. Others put off the process because they associate it with end-of-life, but if you have savings, property or a business, making a will is key to ensuring your dependents and family are protected in the future.

“All appointments are being held virtually so you can make your will from the comfort of your own home. With a set number of appointments available during September, we advise you to book early to ensure you don’t miss out.”

Anyone wishing to make a new will or update an existing will during Thorntons’ charity wills month this September, can find out more online at:

https://www.thorntons-law.co.uk/charitywills

North British Distillery announces limited release of rare 60-year-old charity whisky

The North British Distillery (NBD) has released a uniquely packaged run of 60-year-old Single Grain Scotch Whisky, with all proceeds going to charity.

Distilled in 1960, the liquid for this rare expression comes from a single cask, which lay resting in the NBD warehouse in the outskirts of Edinburgh for 60 years. Bottled at natural cask strength of 50.6% ABV, the release is limited to just 60 individually numbered bottles.

Each has been hand filled into an elegant wax dipped decanter and packaged in a luxury moleskin coffret, which comes complete with a signed certificate of authenticity.

Available to purchase for £3,000 + VAT, the NBD aims to raise £60,000 for each of the three charities it is supporting in 2023 – Big Hearts, Scottish Autism and Four Square.

Picture – Chris Watt Photography 07887554193 info@chriswatt.com www.chriswatt.com

Managing director of NBD, Alan Kilpatrick, said: “North British is a modern company founded on traditional values. We’ve manufactured whisky for 138 years and recycle our by-products for animal feed and electricity. We value our roots and respect our environment, which is why it’s important for us to give back to the community around us as we safeguard our future.

“We have a long history of supporting local charities, which is something we’re really proud of. This 60-year-old gives us, and whisky lovers and collectors around the world, a chance to boost these fundraising efforts and make a real difference.

“Creating great whisky for three great causes, the 60-year-old is the perfect harmony of flavours, with rich spiced fruit, deep oak, and velvety caramel notes. With every sip, you can indulge in one of the finest grain whiskies, having secured an exclusive piece of North British Distillery history while supporting these important causes.”

Established in 1885 on the outskirts of Edinburgh, The North British Distillery is one of Scotland’s oldest and largest Scotch Grain Whisky producers. It serves leading brands across the world where its grain whisky forms a key component of many well-known blends, but rarely releases eponymous single grain whiskies straight to the consumer.

Having supported neighbouring charity Big Hearts, the official charity of Heart of Midlothian FC, for over five years, proceeds from the 60-year-old sale will raise vital funds to help bring community resources together to offer adults and children at risk of social isolation and poverty free opportunities to help them live a safe and fulfilling life.

New charity partners Scottish Autism and homeless charity Four Square will also benefit from the bottling, with an equal share of all proceeds.

The North British Distillery 60-year-old Single Grain Scotch Whisky is now available to purchase for £3,000 + VAT per 70cl bottle: nb60.squarespace.com/

Amazon donates to mental health charity

A mental health charity in Fife has received a £1,000 donation from the team at the Amazon fulfilment centre in Dunfermline.

Express Group Fife provides mental health support to people living in Fife by running self-help social groups, one to one work and social events like meals and various activities. The charity offers a safe space for people struggling with their mental health to talk to someone.

The donation from Amazon will go towards staff training to enhance the provision to service users.

Jamie Strain, General Manager at Amazon in Dunfermline, said: “We are pleased to support Express Group Fife. Mental health is such an important aspect of our lives and Express Group Fife provides a great range of services to support the Fife community.

“We hope that with this donation, the team can continue helping those who need them.”

Gary Guichan, Express Group Fife Service Manager, added: ““On behalf of our staff and volunteers, we would like to thank Jamie and the team at Amazon in Dunfermline for their support.

“Donations like this ensure we can continue supporting the community across Fife and I would urge anyone in need of support to get in contact.”

The donation to Express Group Fife was made as part of Amazon’s programme to support the communities around its operating locations across the UK.

Amazon supports Andy’s Man Club

A suicide prevention charity has received a £1,000 donation from the Amazon fulfilment centre in Dunfermline.

Andy’s Man Club is a nationwide charity aiming to end the stigma around men’s mental health by offering weekly mental health support groups for men across the UK. The local groups in Dunfermline meet every Monday evening at 7pm, excluding bank holidays, where men can chat in a safe space about any difficulties they may be struggling with in their lives.

The donation from Amazon will go towards supporting the charity nationally with advertising and promotional materials, volunteer expenses, events, facilitator team building and provisions over periods when the centres are closed.

Speaking on the donation, Jamie Strain, General Manager at Amazon in Dunfermline, said: “Andy’s Man Club is a fantastic charity working hard to reduce the stigma around men’s mental health.

“I hope that this donation will be beneficial for the charity as it continues its work.”

Craig Bain, an employee who nominated the charity for support, added: ““Andy’s Man Club is a charity that is very close to my heart.

“It provides incredible support for men seeking to improve their mental health and I am glad Amazon has decided to support the charity with this donation.”

Joanne Smith from Andy’s Man Club, said: “We would like to say a big thank you to Jamie and the team at Amazon in Dunfermline for this donation.

“Their support is greatly appreciated and will allow us to continue our suicide prevention work in Dunfermline.

“The latest venue addresses can be found by emailing info@andysmanclub.co.uk or on the website www.andysmanclub.co.uk”

The donation to Andy’s Man Club was made as part of Amazon’s programme to support the communities in and around its operating locations across the UK.

Barratt Developments Scotland pledges £50,000 fund to aid food inequality and support for cancer care

Funds to go to charities supporting those who are facing food inequality, and which offer cancer care across Scotland

Barratt Developments Scotland, which includes Barratt Homes, David Wilson Homes, has donated £50,000 to charities providing support for individuals living with cancer and families impacted by food inequality.

Five charities spanning the length and breadth of Scotland have received a share of the funds, which will go towards helping low-income families struggling with the cost of food and supporting organisations which provide lifeline care for those affected by cancer.

Beneficiaries include Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts in Edinburgh, Launch Foods in Glasgow, Dundee-based Dundee Bairns, Abbie’s Sparkle Foundation in Elgin and Friends of ANCHOR in Aberdeen, which all received a £10,000 donation from Barratt Developments Scotland.

Douglas McLeod, Regional Managing Director for Barratt Developments Scotland, said: “As Scotland’s leading housebuilder, with a national footprint, we’re committed to giving back to the areas in which we build.

“The charities we are supporting through this fund provide vital support to families and individuals across the country who are faced with difficult circumstances.We’re pleased to be able to provide some support, and hope that it will help the charities in continuing their life-changing work across Scotland.”

The donation to Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts, will go towards helping the charity carry out its work of turning surplus food into nourishing meals for families in need, reaching marginalised groups across Edinburgh.

Emily Gifford, Fundraising Manager at Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts, said: “This generous support from Barratt Developments Scotland will go directly towards cooking, packing, and delivering meals to people in need across Edinburgh, as well as signposting towards other relevant support services.

“At the moment, we’re working with around 700 people each week who are facing diverse challenges including poverty, short and long-term physical and mental health conditions, social isolation, unemployment and debt. We are looking forward to working with the Foundation over the coming year to provide support to people throughout the city.”

With a coffee shop, Launch Coffee, on Bothwell Street in Glasgow, Launch Foods works all year round to provide children with free hot and nutritious food after their school day and during the holidays.

Craig Johnston, founder of Launch Foods, said: “For every pound we get we can feed a child in Glasgow – proving that a little can go a long way.

“We’re only a small team and not government funded, which means we rely heavily on donations. We’re grateful to have Barratt Developments on board and helping to support something that makes such a difference to so many children’s lives.”

A third of children in Dundee are living in poverty. Through Barratt Developments’ donation, Dundee Bairns can continue to provide basic needs for children in the city, helping them access food, clothing, activity, and other essentials they need to thrive.

Genna Millar, Project Coordinator at Dundee Bairns, said: “Dundee Bairns is grateful to Barratt Developments for such a generous donation of £10,000.

“The funding has come along at an especially busy time for Dundee Bairns – we are set to deliver our 7^th annual summer ‘Fun and Food’ programme, delivering meals and funding for activities to over 100 schools and community projects, targeting some of the most vulnerable children in the city.”

Based in Aberdeen, Friends of ANCHOR has a collection of specialised wards and clinics within Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, giving treatment and support to those diagnosed with cancer. Barratt Development’s donation will go towards funding specially crafted experiences for those receiving end of life care for an oncology or haematology illness in the North-east of Scotland and the Northern Isles.

Sarah-Jane Hogg, Director at Friends of ANCHOR, said: “With such a generous gift from Barratt Developments, we’ll be able to fund at least 10 Making Memories experiences for patients and their loved ones.

“We’re incredibly grateful to the Foundation and the Barratt team for choosing Friends of ANCHOR to benefit from this donation, every penny of which will go to the cause.”

Abbie’s Sparkle Foundation, based in Elgin, provides support for children with cancer across the UK. The organisation gives children gifts and grants – referred to as ‘sparkles’ – in memory of Abbie who passed away aged 15 on Christmas Day in 2017, after living with Sarcoma – a rare form of cancer.

Tammy Main, Abbie’s mother and Abbie’s Sparkle Foundation Charity Manager, said: “Abbie’s Sparkle Foundation is delighted to receive this hugely generous donation from Barratt Developments. We are all volunteers and they made their giving as easy as possible for us.

“It was lovely to meet Doug McLeod at the David Wilson development in Elgin to share Abbie’s inspirational story and for him to hear the amazing difference this donation will make. We really do appreciate all the support we receive from our kind community.”

For more information on Barratt Developments Scotland, which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, visit: www.barrattdevelopments.co.uk

Summer Ball raises £120,900 for Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland

Just Employment Law has now raised over £400,000 in aid of Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland

On Saturday, 10th June 2023, the black-tie fundraising event at The Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow, was attended by nearly 500 people, providing an opportunity for guests to help raise vital funds and awareness for pancreatic cancer.

Scottish stand-up comedian and TV/radio presenter Des Clarke hosted the event with fabulous entertainment throughout the evening and opportunities to win luxury items through tombolas, prize giveaways, an online auction, and a live auction.

David McRae, Managing Director of Just Employment Law, spoke from the heart about sadly losing his mother Margaret to pancreatic cancer seven years ago, the same year he lost his younger brother. He explained that the Summer Ball was again being held in their memory.

A powerful video featuring members of the Just Employment Law and Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland teams played across large TV screens. Marty Bryson, who sadly lost his mum to pancreatic cancer in 2016 when he was only 15, performed two songs he had written in memory of his mum.

Sean McGarvey, son of former Celtic and St Mirren football legend Frank McGarvey, who passed away from pancreatic cancer in January, spoke to guests. Sean thanked Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland for their support of his family. He highlighted the importance of earlier diagnosis and the urgent need to raise funds and awareness to help save lives.

Scottish football journalist and radio presenter Tam Cowan, who lost his father-in-law John to pancreatic cancer in December 2020, led the hugely successful live auction, all while entertaining the guests with his unique brand of comedy.

Before the guests were let loose on the dancefloor, one lucky guest won a Star Prize Giveaway of £5,000 cash on the evening. The guests then danced the night away with the band Waterfront filling the dancefloor.

Just Employment Law has just announced the final total from their successful summer ball at £120,900, all going to Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland.

David McRae said: “We were delighted to host our third Summer Ball in support of PCAS and to raise much-needed funds and awareness for the charity.

“Having lost my own mother to this silent killer, I have first-hand experience of the devastation it causes. We, and I personally, stand with PCAS and all the excellent work they do.”

Fiona Brown, Development Manager for Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland, said: “We are incredibly grateful to David and the Just Employment Law team, family, friends and networks for their amazing generosity and kindness over a number of years as our charity partners.

“Events like The Summer Ball take a huge amount of organising by the JEL team but can play a key role in raising awareness and funds for pancreatic cancer. It was a wonderful evening and particularly special to have three pancreatic cancer survivors in the room, helping highlight that survival is possible, and earlier diagnosis can save lives.”

Sandra Bigbie, a nine-year pancreatic cancer survivor from Rutherglen, said: “It was an incredible night out and was the most fun I’ve had in years! I would like to thank everyone who was so generous with their donations to raise such an astonishing amount for a very worthy cause.

“I’m sadly part of a very small club of survivors, early diagnosis is the only way to help save more lives, and that is why I am so proud to be able to support Pancreatic Cancer Actions Scotland’s efforts to create a future whereas many people as possible are saved.”

Pancreatic Cancer Action Scotland remains dedicated to saving lives via early diagnosis. If you would like to learn more about us and our mission, you can do so here: panact.org

Pictures by Pear and Plum Photography

Barratt Developments Scotland donates £10k to local charity

TEmpty Kitchens Full Hearts to receive a share of £30k fund to help people facing food inequality

Barratt Developments Scotland, which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, has donated £30,000 to help provide support for children and adults impacted by food inequality.

Edinburgh’s Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts, Glasgow’s Launch Foods and Dundee Bairns are three of five charities set to benefit from a share of the housebuilder’s fund, all of which support low-income families struggling to provide meals across Scotland.

Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts, based in West Granton has provided more than 1.6 million free meals since its launch in 2020. The charity turns surplus food into nourishing meals for people that need them, reaching the most marginalised people across the city.

Emily Gifford, Fundraising Manager at Empty Kitchens Full hearts said: “This generous support from Barratt Developments Scotland will go directly towards cooking, packing, and delivering meals to people in need across Edinburgh, as well as signposting towards other relevant support services.

“At the moment, we’re working with around 700 people each week who are facing diverse challenges including poverty, short and long-term physical and mental health conditions, social isolation, unemployment, and debt. We are looking forward to working with the Foundation over the coming year to provide support to people throughout the city.”

Douglas McLeod, regional managing director for Barratt Developments Scotland, said: “As Scotland’s leading housebuilder, with a national footprint, we’re committed to giving back to the areas in which we build.

“Charities like Empty Kitchens, Full Hearts, Launch Foods and Dundee Bairns are providing vital support to families and individuals facing food poverty during a period where food prices among costs of other everyday items are increasingly rising.

“From tackling food poverty and supporting those with cancer, we’re pleased to be able to provide some support to help these charities continue their life-changing work.”

For more information on Barratt Developments Scotland, which includes Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes, visit https://www.barratthomes.co.uk/