Churches raise over £8k for Hollybush House
Published 17 Jan 2012 09:30
Congregations from Troon St Meddan's and Ayr St Quivox Parish Churches have joined forces to raise a staggering £8,864 for Combat Stress, the UK's leading charity which helps those who suffer from post traumatic stress disorder as a consequence of war.
Each year the churches choose a particular project to raise funds for as part of their Joint Congregational Project. With an increased number of men and women in the armed forces who have been engaged in conflict, it was recognised by both congregations that Combat Stress was an extremely worthwhile charity on which to focus their fundraising efforts.
To achieve this record amount, the churches organised various events including a junior church coffee morning and sponsored teams from both churches along with the local Scottish Episcopal Church in the Troon Tortoises Annual 10k Run. The total raised was added to by donations from church organisations and individual members as well as collections on Harvest Sunday and the St Meddan's Church pantomime. St Quivox also organised a Christmas Candlelight Concert to help boost funds.
In addition to the fundraising activities for Combat Stress, it is hoped that the efforts which both Parishes have made will also increase awareness of the invaluable support the charity provides for Veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression and anxiety disorders.
Commenting on the amount raised Rev David Harper, who is the Minister of St Meddan's Church, said: "The organisation and the work which has gone on behind the scenes by those who have been involved in the Joint Congregational Project has been incredible. On behalf of Combat Stress I would like to commend everyone for their efforts.
"We have a very close local connection to Hollybush House and therefore felt it was important to help what is an extremely valuable and admirable service. Within both congregations there are members who have family serving in the Armed Forces, or members who have personally benefited from the care and support Combat Stress provides.
"The money will go a long way to help our ex servicemen and women who put their lives on the line for their country and require much needed support when they make that transition back into civilian life."
Combat Stress's "The Enemy Within Appeal" aims to: raise money to ensure that all Veterans in the UK have access to prompt treatment, care and support; raise awareness of their plight; and encourage them and their families to seek help sooner.
To find out more about Combat Stress go to www.combatstress.org.uk or call the The Combat Stress 24-Hours Helpline on 0800 138 1619
This article appeared in Cumnock Chronicle 18 Jan 12
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