Young people and their families across some of Glasgow’s most disadvantaged neighbourhoods enjoyed a brighter and less stressful festive season, thanks to a £2,000 donation from Allied Vehicles Charitable Trust.
The funding supported theGKexperience’s Christmas programme, which brought joy and practical assistance to families facing financial pressure over the holidays.
theGKexperience is a youth work charity based in Possilpark, and their premises neighbours Allied Vehicles’ Lomond Street site. It provides support to young people from some of the city’s most deprived areas, including Possilpark and Milton, by combining local youth work, outdoor residential experiences, leadership programmes and community-building initiatives.
Their work fosters resilience in young people living under difficult circumstances, builds aspirations, and creates lasting supportive relationships in the communities it serves.
John Kewley, Chief Executive of theGKexperience, thanked the Trust for the donation, saying, “The award we received from Allied Vehicles made a huge difference to young people and their families this Christmas. As well as the practical benefits of providing food and Christmas essentials, it reduced stress, improved mental health, and brought joy to young people and families at what can often be a difficult time of year.”
The Trust’s donation allowed theGKexperience’s to host a festive party featuring a home-cooked Christmas dinner, entertainment, and gifts for 70 young people.
Young members of their leadership programme enjoyed a special outing and personalised presents in recognition of their contributions to the community. Families in need also received Santa Packs containing Christmas essentials and supermarket vouchers to ease the financial strain and help them to celebrate the season with dignity.
David Facenna, Corporate Culture Director at Allied Vehicles Group, commented, “We’re proud to have supported our neighbours theGKexperience with their Christmas programme. Knowing that families and young people in our community could enjoy the festive season with fewer worries and more joy is heartening. Their work truly embodies the values of compassion and community spirit that we hold dear.”
