Inverness firm Cairngorm donates cash to help make sure less-privileged Highland children get gifts from Santa Claus this Christmas
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While specialising in the kind of windows, doors and kitchens that create cosy homes, Inverness firm Cairngorm is determined to do what it can to ensure some local children are not left out in the cold during the festivities.
The family-run business is donating £500 to Home-Start East Highland, whose trained volunteers and experts help support hard-pressed families with young children through challenging times.
The donation is part of a broader £6,000 Cairngorm gift to the Highland Third Sector Interface (HTSI), with two two £500 donations going to each of the TSI’s six areas – Inverness and Easter Ross, Lochaber, Badenoch and Strathspey, Caithness, Sutherland, and Skye and Wester Ross.
Kathleen Macleod, Home-Start’s senior co-ordinator, said: “Low income and adverse circumstances are very much an issue in our area and we’re busy supporting struggling parents referred to us by healthcare professionals.
“Many referrals mention parents suffering anxiety or isolation in the Covid-19 environment.
“Cairngorm’s wonderful gesture will enable us to provide presents to homes otherwise simply not able to afford them.
“We’re also helping families with pregnancy and young babies and we’re also arranging Christmas parties for clients in Inverness, Alness, Milton and Dingwall where Santa will call in with gifts.”
Chris Dowling, Cairngorm’s joint managing director, visited Home-Start’s office at the Green House in Inverness, part of a 13-strong workforce in Inverness and Invergordon offices.
Mr Dowling said: “We tend to overlook how much genuine hardship is being endured locally and Christmas is a particularly challenging time for families in need.
“It’s good to be able to put a smile on children’s faces in this way.
“The commitment of the Home-Start East Highland team is clear to see and their work something to be greatly admired.
“More community groups are coming forward with projects approved by Highland TSI to receive funding from our scheme.
“I know families hit by rising heat and lighting costs are finding it tough and we want to help.”
