A charity’s dream for an £8 million centre for children with severe disabilities and life-limiting illnesses is now much closer to reality, thanks to the largest donation it has ever received.
The Seven Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen has given Charlie House £400,000 towards its Big Build Project, which aims to create a specialist support centre on the grounds of Woodend Hospital in the city.
The donation, made via the organisation’s Trades Widow Fund charity, has now put the fundraising total for the project over the £2 million mark.
Cash from the Widows Fund will go towards funding the support centre’s spa and pool area, which will feature mood lighting, accessible changing rooms, specialised hoists for disabled children and a Jacuzzi.
The proposed centre will also include a sensory room, library, craft room, therapy room, bereavement care and more.
Brian Donald, the factor of the Seven Incorporated Trades charity, said: “We have known for some time about the Charlie House long-term vision for their Big Build Appeal project, and were recently delivered an in-depth talk.
“This highlighted both the great need for the specialist support centre locally, and for the funding to enable this to happen.
“The collective group of trustees were very impressed with the information, plans and what the building will mean for north-east families, and were committed to supporting this.”
The Widows Fund was established in 2015, and previously allocated £10,000 to Charlie House at the end of last year.
Susan Crighton, director of fundraising at Charlie House, added: “We can’t quite put into words what this means, and still can’t believe it.
“This figure really pushes the appeal forward and the entire team is celebrating hitting the £2 million mark.
“The support and interest we have received from the trustees has been second to none, and we are extremely thankful.
“We will continue to raise awareness of the charity and our appeal, and would also like to take this opportunity to thank the people of the north-east for their generous and unwavering support so far.”
