Enjoy ‘haggis at Home’ for a great cause

Leading end-of-life charity Marie Curie is calling on the people of Monklands to enjoy their own Burns suppers at home this month to show support for those impacted by death, dying and bereavement.

Last year was challenging for many, and with 2021 likely to be similar, the charity sector has taken a huge hit, with fundraising events cancelled as a result of Covid-19.

Marie Curie nurses have been working on the frontline throughout the pandemic caring and supporting people at end of life throughout Scotland.

In the run-up to Burns Night, the charity is hoping supporters in Monklands will back its new fundraising initiative “haggis at Home”, which runs until January 31, giving people everything they need to bring their supper to life, including a running order, a menu, poems and songs by Robert Burns, music from a piper and harpist, and a family quiz, while Marie Curie volunteer Tom Coates will be addressing the haggis.

Debbie Mooney, head of community fundraising for the charity, said: “as we kick off 2021 with another lockdown, the majority of Scottish people may feel like they need their spirits lifted. Sitting down with your household to a traditional Burns supper, listening to the address, enjoying poems and the sound of bagpipes may be something families have never done before, or have not experienced in a while, so this is a great way to feel patriotic.

“We hope to bring some light into the dark winter months and help dying people and their families continue receiving care and support at the end of life.

“Marie Curie needs to raise £250,000 every month to provide care and services in Scotland and as the NHS is put under greater strain, our crucial services are needed now more than ever.”

There is a suggested minimum £10 donation to receive the pack. For more information and to make a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/ campaign/haggisathome