Montrose Port Authority (MPA) has demonstrated its commitment to local causes by presenting a generous donation of £20,000 to Guide Dogs Scotland, a gesture that coincided with the organisation’s opening of their Montrose fundraising group earlier this year.
Guide Dogs Scotland, which operates a regional training centre in Forfar, was selected as MPA's chosen Angus charity for the year 2023/24. The donation supports the organisation's vital work in training guide dogs and assisting individuals with visual impairments across the region.
The Forfar centre is renowned for its comprehensive puppy training programmes, where puppies are nurtured and trained to become dependable guides for those in need. The charity relies on volunteers across Angus, such as puppy raisers and trainee guide dog fosterers, who look after the dogs in the evenings and weekends.
MPA team members visited the centre to witness first-hand the incredible work being done. The visit included a tour of the facilities, showcasing the training areas and the meticulous care provided to the puppies and dogs. The Port Authority team was deeply impressed by the dedication of the staff and volunteers, and the life-changing impact of their work on individuals across the region.
Lynn Sayer, chief commercial officer at MPA, said: “We're proud to support Guide Dogs Scotland and the incredible work they do that not only enriches the lives of individuals with sight loss but also enhances our community's inclusivity and compassion.
“Our visit to their Forfar facilities was fascinating, showcasing the passion and expertise that goes into training these life-changing companions. Their work is truly inspiring, and we are proud to contribute to their mission.”
Lynn Sayer, CCO of MPA, Ellie Emslie, MPA Administrator, and volunteer puppy raiser Danny Rooney with two adorable guide dog puppies, Craigie the German Shepherd and Bishop the Golden Retriever.
Kyla McVicar, business development manager at Guide Dogs Scotland, expressed her gratitude for MPA’s support: “We can’t thank Montrose Port Authority enough for their wonderful donation, we absolutely loved having their team along to our Forfar centre to demonstrate some of the work we do in the local community.
“Our team works across Angus to provide life-changing services to people living with a vision impairment, from providing guide dogs to a range of bespoke services for children and young people. This significant donation will make a huge difference to Guide Dogs Scotland, helping families in Scotland affected by sight loss to receive the support they need to live full, active and independent lives.”
The £20,000 donation will facilitate the training of more guide dogs, directly impacting the lives of individuals who are blind or partially sighted in Angus and beyond. It exemplifies MPA's mission as a trust port to prioritise support for local initiatives that enhance community well-being, accessibility and inclusion.
In the past year, MPA has demonstrated a strong commitment to community welfare by supporting several local charities through its community benefit fund. The Port has donated to RNLI Montrose, aiding their vital sea rescue operations, and sponsored Montrose Playhouse's inclusive community screenings, which serve diverse groups including parents with babies, individuals with hearing impairments, autism, and dementia.
MPA also supported DEBRA Community Fundraising in Scotland by sponsoring DEBRAFEST, the charity fundraiser’s Food and Music Festival in Montrose, which in July 2024 raised £30,000 for the second consecutive year to benefit individuals living with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare and extremely painful genetic skin blistering condition, also known as 'Butterfly Skin'.
Additionally, a substantial donation of £10,000 was made to Montrose Community Trust, empowering them to provide essential support to vulnerable community members, particularly over the festive period late last year.