Halo visit inspires Skye to Kessock Bridge cycle fundraiser leader
THE ‘inspiring” work of a Highland charity that helps thousands of families in need will help motivate a fundraising venture later this year.
Highland Action for Little Ones (Halo) welcomed Lord Lieutenant of Ross and Cromarty, Joanie Whiteford, and local businessman, Willie Gray, to its Alness base.
The visit provided an opportunity for the duo to learn more about the vital support Halo provides to families in need across the region.
Halo founder, Mel Thomson, guided the pair on an in-depth tour of their newly opened facility in the Teaninich Industrial Estate, showcasing the different areas dedicated to their operations.
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Halo is a children’s charity dedicated to supporting families in need in the Highlands.
Thanks to donations from the local community, they work closely with health professionals, educators, social services, and other support organisations on a referral-based system to provide care packages of essential items to children in need, including nappies, formula, clothing and baby equipment.
They also run free groups for local young mums to build their own peer networks and access a range of professional services.
In just two years, the team at Halo have been able to support over 3000 families and expand their presence with offices in Alness, Dingwall and Inverness.
These locations help coordinate the growing number of referrals, and manage the increasing volume of generous donations received from the community.
Reflecting on the visit, Mrs Joanie Whiteford said: "It's inspiring to see the amazing work happening here first hand. We welcomed a new grandson into our family a couple of weeks ago, which makes learning about an organisation like Halo even more meaningful.
“From my work in the community, I am aware life for some local families is complicated, and organisations like Halo are needed more than ever. It’s genuinely heartwarming to witness the kindness of the Highland community - driven by Mel and a team of volunteers coming together to make such a real difference."
Willie Gray, who was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) from Mrs Whiteford earlier this year in recognition of his fundraising, also expressed his admiration for the charity’s efforts: “I first learned about Halo last year - also very recently after becoming a new grandfather - and the mission of the charity really touched my heart.
“In addition to visiting the Alness office, we’ve chosen Halo as one of the beneficiaries of this year’s Bridge to Bridge Highland Cycle, a 77-mile ride from the Skye Bridge to the Kessock Bridge, this September. After meeting Mel and the team at Halo, I’m more motivated than ever to raise as much as possible to support their essential work.”
Halo founder, Mel Thomson, said: “As a relatively new charity, raising awareness within our local community is vital, and having the opportunity to show the Lord Lieutenant and William Gray around our Alness base and speak to them about the work we are doing locally is amazing.
"We’re thrilled to be among the selected charities for this year’s Bridge to Bridge Highland Cycle. This event will not only provide essential funding, but also offer a valuable platform to further promote Halo within the community."
Halo continues to welcome community support through donations, volunteering, and fundraising efforts. For more information on how to get involved, visit their website halohighland.co.uk or follow them on social media.
