A MORAY GROUP that helps people move from homeless accommodation into permanent housing has benefitted from a business deciding not to send out Christmas Cards.
Staff at the Langstane Housing Association were given the opportunity to nominate a suitable charity to receive a donation from the firm rather than their sending out cards to clients and associates.
They immediately nominated Elgin-based Moray Fresh Start, who provide starter packs to many new Langstane tenants on their leaving homeless accommodation.
The packs include bedding, curtains, dishcloths, toaster, kettle, cutlery, right down to cleaning materials, all the things that are needed when a new tenancy starts to make the property a home. They also include perhaps the things that those in a new tenancy cannot easily afford at a time when there are considerable pressures on their finances.
Mary Nelson, Convenor of Moray Fresh Start, said: “How delighted we were to know we will benefit from Langstane Housing Association’s decision not to send traditional Christmas cards in 2016.
“The £300 saved will help us to buy the items that have to be new for our clients who are moving into new tenancies.”
Helen Gauld, Chief Executive at Langstane Housing Association, added: “Again in 2016 we received a number of nominations from staff that are all worthy of support.
“It is disappointing that we have to pick only one. However, we are delighted that Moray Fresh Start were chosen. They provide an essential service to tenants who are just starting out.”