Chip shop opens specially to serve VSA residents for free – thanks to son’s generosity
Aberdeen taxi boss Russell MacLeod paid for a free fish supper for all the residents of VSA’s Ruthrieston House.
The Oor Wullie’s chipper on Great Western Road opened specially to cook the meal for 40 residents and 10 staff as Russell was determined to ensure that no-one missed out of their regular treat during the Covid-19 crisis.
Russell McLeod said “Having not seen my mum for over three weeks and knowing how she likes a fish supper, can’t just go down with one, so let’s get one for all the residents and staff. My good friends at Oor Wullie’s Fish & Chips were delighted to help.”
Two local men Alan Melia and Kiall Clark have donated homemade safety masks to help keep VSA colleagues and vulnerable people in their care safe.
Other companies, including Robert Gordon’s College, Portlethen’s Place to Eat, Sainsburys at Garthdee, Rainbow City Taxis and North East Plumbing and Heating Services, have donated various items including safety masks, sweets, Easter eggs and gloves.
The coronavirus outbreak is one of the most challenging they or any of us have had to face in our lifetime, the charity is humbled by the support of the public.
The charity also launched its COVID-19 appeal over a week ago and has seen an increase in donations online.
Kenneth Simpson, VSA chief executive, said: “I want to personally thank everyone who has donated to our COVID-19 appeal. Many of you have sent in cheques but we don’t have addresses to send you a thank you letter; please know we are truly grateful.”
VSA has had to increase stringent protocols across all its sites, to ensure the safety of staff and the vulnerable people in care. All visits have been suspended for residents unless for exceptional circumstances.
Mr Simpson said: “The response we have had from the public is great and shows a real community spirit. Our residents at Ruthrieston were truly delighted with their fish and chip supper. Thank you so much to Russell and Oor Wullie’s Fish and Chip shop for treating them. This is a challenging time for many of the vulnerable people in our care and treats like this mean so much to them. Everyone else who has, and is continuing to donate to us, I can’t thank you enough. It will help us to continue to provide the best of care.”
With its new appeal the charity would like to buy more iPads so that residents can maintain video contact with friends and relatives, purchase entertainment trolleys that have interactive digital technologies to keep residents minds simulated, and complete vital mental health support and counselling sessions.
VSA provides in excess of two million hours of care through its 22 facilities in the North-east and supports vulnerable people from birth to end of life.
To donate you can visit https://giving.vsa.org.uk/cf/covid-19-appeal
Happy residents