DREW HENDRY: 'Doing the right thing can make a real difference'
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When times are tough, it’s amazing how the power of community can make all the difference.
Whenever there’s an issue or a funding shortfall, you can bet someone in our community will step up to help. And not just individuals – our local businesses are often at the forefront of community initiatives, doing their bit to lend a helping hand.
I have a very recent example of this community spirit in action. Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending a fundraiser event for SNAP, arranged by the fantastic team at the Kingsmills Hotel.
The event was a Stars in their Eyes fundraiser, where brave contestants took to the stage to act as their favourite stars.
Related: DREW HENDRY: Budget does little to ease the pain for most of us
A huge well done to Steve Walsh and his talented daughter Sophia for winning – they were brilliant. Seeing the talent of all the volunteers who put in so much effort to make the event a success was truly amazing.
From Dolly Parton to Freddy Mercury, the impersonations were fantastic, as was the fabulous host Nicola McAlley – the crowd was thoroughly entertained.
But the true highlight of the evening was the amount of money that was raised. The event raised an incredible £33,000 for SNAP, a remarkable achievement. This money will support children with special needs and their families in our local community – something we can all celebrate.
For those who may not know about SNAP’s work, it is an incredible charity that does such valuable work to support local children with special needs and their families. Their services include sensory play sessions, family support groups, and one-to-one therapy sessions, which greatly impact the lives of families in our community. It’s heart-warming to see the dedication and commitment of SNAP’s staff and volunteers to improve the lives of children with special needs. They are all inspirational.
As it always is at these events, seeing so many people come together to support such an important cause was heart-warming. When we come together as a community, it’s clear that we can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.
As I write this from Westminster, where sometimes it can feel like there is little hope, I am reminded of the spirit and resilience of our community as we face the challenges ahead. If we keep doing the right thing together in our communities, we can – sometimes – make a real difference in people’s lives.
– Drew Hendry is SNP MP for Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey.
