Fairfield Energy’s employees have donated more than GBP 7,000 to six charities across the North East of Scotland, following a virtual quiz that kicked off the company’s festive fundraising activities. In a year in which the Coronavirus pandemic has triggered a loss of income and increased demand for the services of many charitable organisations, this support is vital.
A report by Pro Bono Economics (PBE Covid Charity Tracker, November 2020) highlights the scale of the problem, with 63% of UK charities said to be facing higher demand than last year and 84% forecasting a decline in income over the next 12 months, relative to pre-crisis expectations.
The money raised has been donated to the Easter Anguston Farm, which is run by the social care charity VSA; Alzheimer’s Scotland; Mental Health Aberdeen; Cash for Kids; Back Up Trust, which supports those with spinal cord injuries; and AberNecessities. The proceeds of a forthcoming Christmas raffle will be donated to Cash for Kids.
Nicola Gillespie, Fairfield Energy’s HR and Business Services Manager, says, “This year, more than ever, there are countless charities that need our help in the communities in which we live and work, and beyond.”
“Each year we hold a charity quiz and, while this year’s event was a little different as a result of being hosted virtually, our team embraced the opportunity to get involved and give something back. I’d like to thank all those who took part to help these important causes in some way,” adds Gillespie.
Graeme Kinghorn, Trustee and Treasurer at Mental Health Aberdeen, says, “As a local charity that supports the local community, we can only continue to deliver our services with the support of businesses and individuals. To receive donations like the one from Fairfield Energy, which came out of the blue, is a fabulous motivator for us and makes our efforts feel worthwhile.”
