Michael’s legacy helps fund veterans’ new accommodation
Five new apartments at Erskine
28.11.2018 A legacy from a generous donor has seen five veterans move into new accommodation.
These are in the Veterans’ Village on the Erskine Estate, Bishopton.
The newly- built assisted living apartments were partly funded by a substantial legacy left to veterans’ charity Erskine by Michael O’Donnell, from Edinburgh.
This week, Mr O’Donnell’s son Keith will make a poignant visit to the apartments, which have been named Kimberlea House in memory of his father and his home in Dunbar.
Keith said: “My father was a veteran of World War II, joining the Highland Light Infantry in 1939 and serving until 1946 when he left the Army as a Warrant Officer.
“He rarely spoke about the war, although we do know that he never lost an appreciation of the fact he was one of the lucky ones – he came home.
“It was no surprise to me that he wanted to leave all his assets to charity, the bulk of which he left to Erskine to help support the marvellous work they do caring for veterans.
“We are all immensely proud of the facility that Erskine has created with his legacy.”
Erskine chief executive Ian Cumming MBE said the charity was extremely grateful to the late Mr O’Donnell for his generosity in remembering veterans in his will.
“His gift has transformed the lives of veterans who have a specialist housing need,” he said.
“They now live independently in a safe and peaceful home environment, with help and support from us when required.
“Mr O’Donnell’s kindness will continue to improve the lives of many and he will not be forgotten.”
The first veteran moved into Kimberlea House on November 1.
The five apartments, which are connected to The Erskine Home, allow veterans to live as independently as possible for as long as possible.
A range of services are available to the residents to assist them, including provision of meals, cleaning, laundry, call alarm response and a weekly shopper bus.
The Reid Macewen Activity Centre is also part of the Veterans’ Village, where they are welcome to take part in recreational and social activities.
He rarely spoke about the war, but he never lost an appreciation of the fact he was one of the lucky ones – he came home. It came as no surprise that he left the bulk of his assets to Erskine Keith O’Donnell