Local charities benefit from CORRA
By Lucy Ashton
Two charities based in West Dunbartonshire have received grants following support from the local MSP, Jackie Baillie, pictured right.
Each year, Corra Foundation distributes just under £1 million through its Henry Duncan Grants programme to grassroots charities working in their local communities.
Civil Rights First which is based in Dumbarton has been awarded a grant of £4,000 towards running costs of the charity including insurance, postage, licence, memberships, website and travel.
Jackie Baillie said: “I am delighted that this grassroots charity is receiving funding, enabling them to continue their great work in my constituency. Many of the Corra Foundation Henry Duncan Grants go on staff and running costs like this, meaning they are a lifeline for local charities in this tough financial climate.”
Corra Foundation Chief Executive, Fiona Duncan, added: “Corra Foundation is privileged to be able to contribute to the work of local groups across Scotland, supporting them as they make a real difference in the lives of many people, including vulnerable children and young people, isolated older people, unpaid carers, families experiencing poverty and people affected by disability or mental health issues. We are committed to our vision of a society in which people create positive change and enjoy fulfilling lives and distributing £1m a year via the Henry Duncan Grants is part of this.”
Applications can be made every two months to the Henry Duncan Grants. If charities are interested in applying they can find out more on the Corra Foundation website or by calling Corra Foundation on 0131 444 4020.
Corra Foundation runs the Partnership Drugs Initiative (PDI) which it funds jointly with the Scottish Government. PDI aims to improve outcomes and life chances for children, young people and families affected by alcohol and/or other drugs.
It works in partnership with charities and statutory agencies across Scotland and focuses on preventative and early intervention approaches as well as on listening to children, young people and families.
Scottish Families Affected by Drugs, which is based in Dumbarton, has been awarded a grant of £156,602 as a contribution towards salaries and costs of the Young Person Project. This project will work with young people aged 12-26 affected by a relative’s drug or alcohol abuse in East and West Dunbartonshire.
Jackie Baillie said: “I am delighted that this organisation has received funding for the essential work it does. Voluntary organisations provide vital support to children, young people and families, including many who face the most challenging circumstances. The voluntary sector is often at the forefront of developing new approaches, closely informed by the views and experiences of the people they support and helping to achieve lasting change.”
Chief Executive Fiona Duncan added: “Corra Foundation is strongly committed to the rights of children and young people, including their right to be listened to and to have opportunities across all areas of their lives.
“We are hugely grateful to the children and young people who help us make decisions as part of the PDI funding process. Their insights are crucial in making sure funding goes to projects that will make a difference.”