A Cracker Of A Christmas For Charities!

07 January 2010

2009 ends on a high as charity lottery raises £4 Million for good causes in Scotland

Scotland is proving just how false the stereotype of the tight-fisted Scot is, as this year charity lottery the People’s Postcode Lottery found the generosity of Scottish players to have surpassed all expectations.

40p from every ticket played by those living in a Scottish postcode goes directly to charities in Scotland- and as 2009 ends this amount has passed the £4 million mark, leaving lottery heads and charities alike delighted.

People’s Postcode Lottery Managing Director Jo Bucci said:

“Raising £4 million for charities across Scotland in such a short time is a massive achievement, and it’s thanks to generous Scots from the Highlands to the Borders that we’ve been able to accomplish this.

The recession has hit all sectors, and an area of particular concern was the rate of charitable giving. Well, I think Scot’s have bucked that trend, and should be very proud of doing so. Congratulations!”

One of Scotland’s biggest charities, CHILDREN 1ST, had predicted a real shortfall for 2009. Support from the Postcode Lottery has amounted to over £800,000 to date, something that’s had a huge impact on the thousands of Scottish families who rely on the charity.

CHILDREN 1ST Chief Executive Anne Houston explains:

“It’s a very difficult time for charities, and we’ve seen a drop in all forms of income and donations. We rely heavily on the generosity of members of the public, so we extend huge thanks to players of the People’s Postcode Lottery for putting Scotland’s vulnerable children first.”

Funding received to date is more than enough to run six CHILDREN 1ST family support services for one year. Maggie’s Cancer Caring Centres, Missing People (in Scotland) and Scottish Wildlife Trust are also among the charities who receive regular and unrestricted funding.

The People’s Postcode Lottery launched in Scotland in November 2007 and had its first draw on 4 January 2008. Charity partners not only benefit directly from funds but also from the profiles and promotions the People’s Postcode Lottery does to raise awareness of their work. Participants can play by subscription.