Surprise Christmas grant for elderly support group from Asda Toryglen
Colleagues from our Toryglen store surprised volunteers who offer handyman and befriending services for isolated elderly people with an £8,000 grant from the Asda Foundation.
The store's community champion Elizabeth Arbuckle regularly volunteers with Lightburn Elderly Association Project and presented the cheque to chairperson Gilbert Feron at the group's festive 'thank you' meal for volunteers.
The donation will enable the group to expand their services to help people in rural areas.
Many of the volunteers are elderly themselves and travel to help less able elderly people carry out basic tasks in the home, as well as spending time with people who may otherwise be on their own.
The group's executive director Stuart McGregor said: "There were quite a few tears when the cheque was presented! It was an absolutely fabulous surprise, particularly at this time of year.
"Some older people in our community are less able to do basic tasks around the house, like changing a lightbulb and, if they try, the consequences can sometimes be catastrophic. Our handyman service enables them to retain their independence while not having to worry about trying to attempt these basic tasks.
"Our befriending service is vital too, with volunteers going out and spending two or three hours with isolated people.
"Our volunteers sometimes miss the structure they used to have in their lives, and are still fit and active, so it's great for them to go out and help people too.
"The money means so much to us and will help us expand our befriending service to help a further 120 isolated people in rural communities.
"Elizabeth is great and does a very good job volunteering with our organisation."
Elizabeth, who was accompanied by Asda Toryglen's general store manager Fraser Stevenson, said: "I was in tears when I handed over the cheque and I think some members of the group were too! They were so excited and surprised.
"The volunteers are brilliant and It is a privilege to be able to help the group in this way and continue to support the community in any way we can."