A special charity partnership will be stepping up its efforts to support vulnerable children in the North-east this spring.
On Thursday 1 May, staff from Mackie’s of Scotland will join representatives from children’s charity, Cash for Kids, to take on a 19.2-mile trek from the family-run farm near Rothienorman to Mackie’s 19.2 parlour in Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
The joint challenge is part of Cash for Kids’ Day and their Step Around Scotland campaign, which tasks local teams with racking up steps to raise funds and awareness. The Mackie’s route alone is expected to total around 42,000 steps, making a significant contribution toward the north-east’s one-million-step target.
The ice cream producer is headline sponsor of this year’s north-east campaign, joining forces with the children’s charity which supports those affected by poverty, abuse, neglect and life-limiting illness.
Yvette Harrison, Mackie’s 19.2 Parlour Manager, said: “Supporting Cash for Kids Day in this way felt like a natural fit for us as it’s about community, connection and doing something genuinely meaningful.
“The walk from our farm to the parlour is a symbolic one, linking the heart of our business with the city centre, while helping raise vital funds for children who need it most.”
Jamie Smith, Charity Manager at Cash for Kids, said: “This partnership is a brilliant opportunity to showcase the creative and community-minded approach of Mackie’s while highlighting the difference Cash for Kids makes in the lives of local children.
“The walk is a fun challenge that will help bring our message to life.”
The walk is expected to take approximately eight hours and is designed to offer a symbolic and physical connection between two important sites in the Mackie’s story – their original farm where ice cream is produced and their city-centre retail space.
Adding an extra flavour of fun, a text raffle will be launched on the day. As the walking team passes through towns and villages, local businesses will be invited to contribute prizes, with entrants encouraged to text to donate for a chance to win.
Jamie added: “We wanted to create a dynamic, engaging event.
“The raffle allows us to connect with communities along the route, giving people a fun way to take part and win something in return.”
Cash for Kids supports children and young people who are affected by poverty or face difficult circumstances. The charity provides grants to families, schools and community groups to ensure essentials and vital support services are accessible to those who need them most.
Organisers are encouraging the public to support the cause by donating, sharing content online, or entering the raffle to help raise vital funds for local children.