AN EAST Ayrshire charity has been shortlisted at the Scottish Charity Awards which are dedicated to celebrating the best of Scotland’s voluntary sector.

Run annually by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), this year’s shortlist includes 47 individuals and organisations from charities and voluntary groups across the country and Recovery Enterprises Scotland CIC has made it to the final of the Community Action category for its work engaging with 150 households to provide 3,304 food parcels since June 2020.

The charity has also been recognised for establishing numerous services to address unmet needs.

Winners will be announced on October 1 in an online ceremony so that all finalists and attendees who wish to attend are still able to join the celebrations in a safe way, regardless of lockdown restrictions.

Founder Mark Gallagher said: “As a small grassroots project operating with limited resources, we are delighted at being recognised.

“This is testament to the team’s efforts over the past year, continually demonstrating commitment and compassion, making a significant impact within the most marginalised communities.”

Anna Fowlie, Chief Executive of SCVO, said: “At SCVO we know that fantastic work is going on in the voluntary sector all the time and we are delighted to celebrate these achievements and successes through the Scottish Charity Awards.

“We had a record-breaking number of entries this year and each one demonstrated just how well the voluntary sector has responded and adapted to changes and restrictions over the past 12 months, which made shortlisting all the more difficult.

“Our 47 finalists showcase just how diverse our sector is and highlight the fantastic work that has been going on across the country during the coronavirus pandemic.”

She added: “The awards are a great way of celebrating and recognising the people and organisations who have made such a difference and I would encourage everyone to support their favourite by voting in the People’s Choice Award.”

While a judging panel will determine the winners under nine distinct categories, members of the public can have their say by voting for their favourite overall entry in the People’s Choice Award by visiting the SCVO website before 5pm on Friday, August 27.