Calderglen High School in East Kilbride made a heartwarming gesture towards their local community by presenting a generous cheque to the East Kilbride Community Food Bank during a festive lunch event. The donation of £500 was raised through a sponsored sports sleepover organised by S1 and S2 pupils, with the support of staff led by Mr. Steve Odger. This monetary boost was handed over to Karen Doran, the organiser of the food bank from Calderwood Baptist Church, as a token of appreciation for the hard work and dedication shown by the school’s Befrienders throughout the year.
The Befriending Project at Calderglen High School pairs S6 pupils with elderly members of the community to offer companionship through various activities like chats over a cuppa, assisting with errands, and engaging in meaningful conversations. The special festive lunch, prepared by S3 pupils and teachers, served as a delightful way to honour the students and seniors involved in this heartwarming initiative. Avril Anderson, the visionary behind the Befriending Project, was recently recognised as a ‘local hero’ for her outstanding community contributions, including the project’s expansion to support the day care centre at Kilbryde Hospice.
During a celebratory event at Holyrood attended by notable figures like King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and First Minister John Swinney, Avril expressed the growing popularity of the Befrienders project and its positive impact on both volunteers and participants. The success of the initiative has led to a waiting list of interested individuals eager to get involved, showcasing the project’s significance in fostering connections and making a difference in the lives of others.
The school’s commitment to giving back to the community exemplifies the spirit of kindness and generosity that resonates throughout East Kilbride. Through initiatives like the Befriending Project and fundraising efforts for local causes, Calderglen High School continues to instil values of empathy and community service in its students, creating a culture of care and support that uplifts those in need.
In summary, Calderglen High School in East Kilbride demonstrated their dedication to supporting the local community by raising funds for the East Kilbride Community Food Bank through a student-led initiative. The Befriending Project, spearheaded by Avril Anderson, has fostered connections between students and seniors, enriching lives and spreading positivity. Such acts of kindness not only benefit those in need but also cultivate a culture of compassion and service within the school community, showcasing the power of collective goodwill in making a difference.