Aberdeen charity, the Trades Widows’ Fund Charity, celebrated a major milestone yesterday (Wednesday, 18 December) having donated more than £1 million to local groups and charities.
The charity marked the occasion with an event at Trinity Hall, the home of The Seven Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen, which was attended by over 100 people from across 83 groups and third sector organisations.
Founded in 2015, the Trades Widows’ Fund Charity’s, which is funded byThe Seven Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen, was set up specifically to help the local community and the city’s residents.
Yesterday saw its total donated to good causes reach £1,154,000.
Trustees of the charity are drawn from two members of each trade of The Seven Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen, including its presiding Deacon Convener and Master of Trades Hospital.
The Seven Trades of Aberdeen was founded in 1587 so that its members could use their work for the good of the burgh, believing that a strength in numbers and a united voice, along with a commitment to quality workmanship specialist skill, would set a benchmark which would stand the test of time.
Hundreds of years later and the organisation, which comprises the Hammermen, Bakers, Wrights & Coopers, Tailors, Shoemakers, Weavers, and Fleshers, continues to help alleviate financial hardship, while focusing on education and community development.
Craig Matheson from The Trades Widows’ Fund Charity, said: “The charity was founded in 2015 with the simple aim to help the local community and residents of Aberdeen.
“We regularly provide grants to charities, local community groups, and organisations which provide support to individuals, communities, and children who are experiencing hardship – whether from food poverty, illness, need for clothing, and the need for general daily support.
“Priority is given to local organisations seeking modest grants, which they would otherwise find difficult to secure, and where the widest number of people can benefit.
“This has proved to be a very successful strategy with more than 50 grants being awarded this month alone, specifically in time for Christmas.
“Numbers of applications are increasing, demonstrating the rising need for support across the city and surrounding area. This is a challenge the Fund and its Trustees are ready to accept. We endeavour to increase the number of grants awarded and continue our efforts to make a difference for as many people in need as possible.”
Groups and charities that have recently benefited from the fund include: Charlie House, Somebody Cares, Hermes Para Football, Kayleighs Wee Stars, Team Jak, Aberdeen Foyer, CALICO, Music 4 U, Street Friends, Avenue, We too!, and Printfield Community Project.
More information about Trades Widows’ Fund Charity can be found at www.twfcharity.org
More information about The Seven Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen can be found at www.seventradesofaberdeen.co.uk
