THREE of the Helensburgh area good causes who received an early Christmas present from the Co-op Community Fund recently paid a visit to the company’s Sinclair Street store last week to tell customers all about what they do.
Representatives of Gareloch Riding for the Disabled, Helensburgh Community Hall Ltd and Alzheimer Scotland Argyll and Bute were all present after receiving a combined total of more than £25,000 from the fund.
As reported in the Advertiser last month, Gareloch RDA received £7,971.21, Alzheimer Scotland got £9,342.15, and £8,552.56 was paid out to the Helensburgh Community Hall.
Anne-Marie King from Alzheimer Scotland said: “We are just overwhelmed by the amount raised and by the support of Co-op members. This money will go a long way in helping us to support people who are living with dementia in our local communities. On behalf of Alzheimer Scotland and the staff of the Helensburgh Dementia Resource Centre we would like to say a huge thank you to everybody for their support.”
Lorna Douglas from Helensburgh Community Hall said: “We are truly delighted at receiving this generous funding. It will be used to improve, and make more flexible, the use of the outdoor space at the hall.
“A heartfelt thanks to all who supported us.”
READ MORE: Pictures from a magical Christmas weekend at Helensburgh Winter Festival
Local Co-op ‘member pioneer’ Elizabeth Howie added: “It was an amazing contribution from the community and I’m so proud for the Co-op to be part of this.”
The community fund is also backing Males Tales and Grey Matters, and staff at the store have decided to continue raising money for the Gareloch RDA group throughout the year.
Meanwhile, a special tombola took place in the store on Thursday to raise money for the Cash for Kids charity.
Shop manager David MacDonald said: “Many families will struggle financially to organise a Christmas meal and buy presents for children.
“Therefore, this year all large Co-op stores across the country are taking part in Mission Christmas Cash for Kids.
“We hope that with our customers’ support we will be able to turn this event into a big success.”
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