Community: Blythswood

Blythswood Care is an international Christian charity based in the Highlands of Scotland with the splendid vision of bringing Christian care for body and soul - wherever it is needed.

We in Fullarton have been linked with Blythswood Care for several years doing two specific practical tasks for the charity. Every Wednesday a group of willing volunteers - not all from Fullarton - meet in the Fullarton Hall from 10am to 2pm to inspect, sort and grade donated clothes and other items which can be sent primarily to eastern Europe, as well as to Glasgow and here in Irvine, as part of Blythswood Care's efforts in meeting its vision. Over the years many tonnes of good quality clothes have been packaged for use by those in need. Whatever is not acceptable for sending abroad is still useful as the rejected items are made available as rags and earn cash for the charity.

The other task is a major annual effort in support of Blythswood Care's Christmas shoebox appeal. Over five to seven full working days some 4500 shoeboxes are collected from all round Ayrshire (and beyond), and are brought to the Fullarton Centre where a team of over 80 individuals help to check each shoebox, insert a piece of Christian literature according to the age of the intended recipient, and package these shoeboxes into cartons for onward movement primarily to Romania. It is a massive task enjoyed by a varied group of people of all ages, from over 15 local churches of all denominations and some with no church connection. The fellowship is quite exceptional in terms of combining serious work with a most meaningful aim.

The simple invitation is - come and see for yourself and join us; you'll be most welcome.