In the spirit of the festive season, the Barrack Charitable Trust, funded by Knight Property Group, is delighted to announce that is has donated almost £42,000 to 23 charities across Scotland.
This significant contribution is part of the trust's biannual giving programme, aimed at supporting a diverse range of organisations dedicated to making a difference in their communities across the country.
The 23 charities supported in this tranche represent the diversity and resilience of Scotland’s charitable sector. Five of the beneficiaries are located in and around Aberdeen and the North-east.
The Denis Law Legacy Trust in Aberdeen received a £5,000 donation to help fund the purchase of a new mobile sports arena. The charity delivers a number of free-to-access programmes and positive destination activities for young people in Aberdeen.
Mark Williams, chief operating officer of the Denis Law Legacy Trust, said: “We are delighted to receive a grant of £5,000 from the Barrack Charitable Trust, contributing to the purchase of a new mobile arena.
"Thanks to the generous support, the arena will help us deliver our range of free-to-access activities directly into the hearts of disadvantaged communities that need it most. I am incredibly grateful to the Barrack Charitable Trust and with its support, we can continue to empower more young people to thrive.”
Disabled Persons Housing Service (Aberdeen) received £1,500 to help support the ‘No Place Like Home’ project. The charity provides housing options advice and information to disabled people, their families and carers. The ‘No Place Like Home’ project is specifically for disabled people who are aged over 65 and who are seeking housing options advice.
Shirley Finlayson, manager, Disabled Persons Housing Service Aberdeen, said: “We are extremely grateful to receive this generous funding from the trust and on behalf of the staff, volunteers and committee of DPHS Aberdeen, I would like to thank the trustees for the award.
"The funding will help us greatly in assisting disabled people aged over 65 in the community who are struggling to access housing options advice and are seeking solutions to their housing needs. Many of our disabled clients have complex needs or are in hospital where we visit them to provide our advice service and we can help them access housing waiting lists or advise on other housing options.”
Other locals charities supported this time include North East Sensory Services, which received £1,000 funding for project and activity costs for the Young People’s Sensory Service, which supports babies, children and young people with hearing loss. The Breadmaker received £1,000 and Mannofield Church £500.
From grassroots initiatives to nationwide efforts, the trust’s donations will help tackle pressing issues such as poverty, homelessness, mental health and youth support. The winter tranche of funding comes at a crucial time, as many charities face increased demand for their services during the holiday season.
Trust chairman James Barrack, said: "We are incredibly proud to support such a wide range of worthwhile causes across Scotland and particularly in Aberdeen, through the Barrack Charitable Trust.
"We believe in giving back to the communities where we live and work and this is especially meaningful as we approach the festive season. These charities provide essential support to so many and it is an honour to play a part in their vital work.”
This winter’s contributions mark another milestone in the Barrack Charitable Trust’s commitment to supporting Scottish communities. With two tranches of funding awarded each year, the trust continues to uphold its mission to empower organisations that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.