Christmas has come early for eleven hard-working charities this year, with Melville Housing Association spreading some festive cheer thanks to £6,500 in donations to food banks, community pantries, and youth programmes that operate across central Scotland.
These latest donations, made during Melville’s 30th anniversary year of giving, reflect the organisation’s continued support for the delivery of essential services to underserved communities.
The eleven charities, spread across Midlothian and beyond, have each received payments to help with their work tackling hardship and inequality over the busy festive period; they are Aberlour Child Care Trust, Cash for Kids Mission Christmas, Central Dalkeith and Woodburn Pantry, Clydesdale Foodbank, Dalkeith Storehouse, Edinburgh and Lothian Trust Fund, Mayfield Pantry, Gorebridge-based Midlothian Foodbank, Midlothian Women’s Aid, Penicuik Foodbank and Mayfield-based youth charity Y2K.
“We are incredibly grateful to receive this generous donation from Melville Housing Association,” said Alistair Rogers of the Edinburgh and Lothian Trust Fund. “This past year has been particularly challenging, with demand for our services continuing to rise. Every donation provides essential everyday items that make a real difference to those who might otherwise go without. We really appreciate the support of both organisations like Melville and individual donors throughout the year, but especially at Christmas.”
All of the charities supported have expressed their sincere thanks, highlighting the real and immediate difference a £600 donation will make. At a time of year that can be particularly difficult and expensive for many individuals and families, this funding will help organisations respond to rising demand and provide essential, practical support to people who are struggling with the cost of everyday living.
“We are proud to be celebrating Melville’s 30th anniversary and grateful for the continued support of the communities we serve,” said Kirsten Dean, Depute Chief Executive of Melville Housing. “Our 30 years, 30 donations commitment reflects three decades of working alongside local organisations and giving back in meaningful ways. While this is an important milestone for us, we know it comes at a time when many people are facing real and growing pressures. These donations are about offering practical support where it’s needed most.
“Like many other charitable organisations, we are seeing unprecedented demand for our services, and we want any Melville tenant who is struggling to know that they are not alone. Please contact us - and if we’re unable to help directly, we will always put you in touch with organisations that can provide the right support.”
