Hundreds of children due to spend Christmas in hospital are set to receive a welcome dose of festive cheer this December, thanks to a heart-warming donation supporting NHS Grampian families.
The festive initiative, led by Mackie’s of Scotland, will see more than £4,000 worth of gifts and workshops delivered to children’s wards via The Archie Foundation, helping to bring warmth and joy during what can be a difficult time for young patients and their families.
The generous donation includes brand-new books, pyjamas, cuddly bears and toy boxes, alongside weekly craft sessions throughout December.
Crucially, Mackie’s will once again ensure that every patient and member of staff in children’s wards across NHS Grampian receives a personal tub of ice cream on Christmas Day, spreading sweetness across the wards.
Sarah Pirie (Project Coordinator), left, and Kelly M. Anderson (Head of Fundraising) at The Archie Foundation.
Stuart Common, Managing Director atMackie’s of Scotland said: “Christmas should be a magical time for every child, and we’re honoured to work with The Archie Foundation to bring a bit of sparkle to those who need it most.
“Whether it's through a thoughtful gift in hospital or a tub of ice cream enjoyed on Christmas Day, we hope to share a little joy and comfort with people across Aberdeen this festive season.”
Archie Toy Box
Reti Turner, regional fundraising officer at The Archie Foundation, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Mackie’s for their ongoing support, which allows us to create precious moments of happiness for families at what can be a very difficult time – and even more so at Christmas.
“Knowing that children will wake up to thoughtful gifts and can enjoy treats means the world to the children and families we support.”
Mackie’s continues to grow its presence across the UK, cementing its status as the nation’s fastest-growing premium ice cream brand while maintaining deep roots in the north east.
Reti Turner (Regional Fundraising Officer at The Archie Foundation - Grampian)
This year’s Christmas initiative is the latest in a series of community-focused efforts by the firm, which also donated 2,000 tubs of ice cream to NHS Grampian patients for Christmas Day last year.
Caroline Clark, Chief Nurse for Combined Child Health at Royal Aberdeen Children’s Hospital, said: “These gifts from Mackie's provide very special treats for the children and we're very grateful to them and The Archie Foundation for helping us coordinate this for our young patients. I know the ice cream will go down especially well on Christmas Day!"
To find out more about Mackie’s of Scotland, please visit: www.mackies.co.uk