Housebuilder launches community bursary scheme in north east Scotland

CALA Homes has announced that charities, schools, community projects and good causes across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire could receive a share of £10,000 thanks to the housebuilder’s 2019 Community Bursary.

The initiative aims to help support a range of organisations and projects within the communities in which CALA builds. Since its launch in 2015, more than 30 good causes have received a share of over £32,000 in the north east of Scotland.

Mike Naysmith, managing director at CALA Homes (North) explained, “We’re thrilled to be launching our community bursary in Aberdeen once again, and are looking forward to hearing from even more local charities, schools, community projects and good causes in the area and finding about the great work being done. CALA has always been committed to making a positive and lasting contribution to local communities through an active programme of local charity donations, community support and sponsorship, and the community bursary initiative gives us the chance to find out exactly what support is needed locally.

“More than 30 charities in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have previously benefited from the CALA Community Bursary, with donations made to projects including groups supporting youngsters with additional support needs, sporting organisations, groups helping vulnerable families, and community churches. The bursary provides an opportunity for charities and groups of all sizes to apply for funds, and we look forward to hearing more about how we can get involved.”

One example of an organisation to benefit is Supporting Children in Learning for Life (SCILL) – which organises swimming lessons for children with additional support needs who find it difficult to access out-of-school activities. SCILL received funding through the scheme last year. Chair Cath Riddoch said, “We’re a small independent charity and we rely solely on grants and donations, so this support is fantastic and will enable us to continue to provide our service. We would like to thank CALA Homes for its very kind donation.”

To apply for a share of the community bursary, an application form can be downloaded from the CALA website (www.cala.co.uk/bursary). Forms are also available to pick up from CALA Homes’ sales offices at developments across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. The closing deadline for entries is March 8.