The funding, totalling £105,665, has been awarded to 26 impactful services that support people and communities experiencing significant hardship. The grants will help fund essential programmes that provide direct relief from poverty, address social isolation, and offer vital resources to those most in need.

The funded organisations span a wide range of community needs such as improving health and well-being, cost of living support, poverty and neglect. This grant cycle reflects Hillcrest Foundation’s continued commitment to supporting projects that tackle immediate challenges in local communities, empowering people to live better lives.

The Hillcrest Foundation was established in 2020 to help reduce inequality and isolation, and support communities and those experiencing disadvantages in the areas of Hillcrest’s operations.

Steven Elder, Foundation chairperson, said: “I’m delighted that this latest round of funding enables 26 organisations to continue their support of individuals and families across Scottish communities experiencing significant hardship. This funding strengthens their ability to respond to urgent needs and invest in solutions that promote stability, dignity, and opportunity for those most affected.”

Some of this year’s beneficiaries include Hopscotch Children’s Charity, who were awarded £4,500 to help give children experiencing poverty, neglect, trauma, or who are in caring roles to get a break from hardship and difficult home environments.

Hopscotch representative Alison Bass said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Hillcrest Foundation for their generous donation of £4,500, which will directly benefit children from Dundee. At Hopscotch Children’s Charity, we provide life-changing respite breaks to around 420 children each year from across Scotland, at our respite centre near Loch Linnhe. Many of these children face significant challenges at home, and their time with us offers a rare opportunity to relax, try new experiences, and simply be children.”

Another beneficiary is Dundee West Community Grants, who were awarded £5,000 to help reduce inequalities for people with autism and those who are experiencing deprivation. The funding will provide people who need support the opportunity to play and enjoy football.

Tam McCabe said: “The Dundee West Community Trust is delighted to have received funding support from the Hillcrest Foundation. This grant will go towards improving the health & well-being of the people we support, by providing accessible, inclusive opportunities to stay fit and healthy. Hillcrest share our values that community is key and that having a local place where people can come together and feel a sense of belonging is crucial for well-being.”