The TACC FC project at Kilmarnock FC has been up and running for a few weeks now so we popped down on Monday to see how they were getting on.  It was fantastic to see the kids tucking into a hot meal and despite the cold weather they had great fun on the pitch practising their skills.  The programme is being expertly run by the guys at Kilmarnock and so far the kids have been able to meet some of the first team players, as well as having education sessions on healthy lifestyles and nutrition.  The feedback is all very positive and we look forward to following their progress, these programmes can make a big difference to a child's life.  Keep up the good work guys!

Using some of the money from a recent generous donation of £2000 from the Tartan Army Children’s Charity, S.H.I.P. (Support, Help & Integration Perthshire) took some disabled children and families they support for a special Christmas treat last weekend.  Those who use our Perth services attended Dick Mc Whittington in Perth Concert Hall.  Our Aberfeldy children and families were given the opportunity to see a special screening of the latest Disney release Moana at Birks Cinema in Aberfeldy.  For the vast majority of the children it was their first experience of attending a Pantomime, or visiting a Cinema. With the support of S.H.I.P. staff and volunteers families were able for the first time to enjoy an experience in the lead up to Christmas that most families take for granted.

S.H.I.P. Chair Brian Johnstone said of the events “We are grateful to the Tartan Army Children’s Charity for their generosity which made these opportunities possible, thanks also to Perth Concert Hall and Birks Cinema for their support, These events have made a real difference to our kids and their families, and will have left lasting memories for them in the lead up to Christmas.  Most of us can remember our first visit to a Cinema or a Panto. Now our children will have those same memories, thanks to the Tartan Army.  With almost 200 individuals attending across the two venues, our teams also deserve a special mention for ensuring that the events were so successful.”

S.H.I.P. is a Perth based charity formed by parents in 1986.  The charity supports children with Additional Support Needs and their families integrate within the community.  S.H.I.P. works closely with local partners to promote the interests of the young people and families we support.  The charity also operates clubs and play schemes providing opportunities for fun and development for our young people, and respite for their carers.

In early January, TACC supported the DadsWork and Includem charities by facilitating (via a generous gesture by SSE) for some families to attend the Marvel Universe Live show at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow. 

Yuo can see some photos from DadsWork.  The kids (and dads) had a fantastic evening in a Private Suite which had the best views of the superb live show which had everyone fixated.  One of the dads (Andrew Stevenson) said "A massive thanks to TACC and DadsWork for an incredible evening, Aidan and me had an epic time and Aidan was glued to the show and really enjoyed himself, thanks for an incredible night and an amazing start to 2017 !!!!"

Includem also sent some disadvantaged families to the event.  Michael Shanks of Includem said "Just wanted to drop you a quick email to pass on the considerable thanks of all the young people who went along to the Marvel Universe Show last week.  They all had a fantastic time and it was great to see them enjoying an event in amongst their otherwise very challenging daily lives. They really appreciated the invitation. Thanks again and best wishes for 2017 to you and all at the Tartan Army Childrens Charity."