Scottish organisations are benefiting from the game that strikes despair for many Scots

Scottish charities benefited from a special screening of England’s 1966 World Cup win.

Yesterday, Sunday (7 June), Channel 4 aired the match that strikes despair for many Scots in full in an effort to raise funds for charities supporting the most vulnerable affected by coronavirus throughout the UK.

In partnership with the National Emergencies Trust’s (NET) Coronavirus Appeal, funds will be distributed through Foundation Scotland north of the border.

Hosted by Gaby Logan, the fundraiser showcased some of the life-changing projects supported by NET to date. Projects include a diverse range of organisations on the community frontline, from food banks and meal delivery efforts to mental health support groups and voluntary medical services.

The national TV fundraiser, which is still available to view online, featured Edinburgh-based group Building Bridges distributing food to local BAME families in need across the city.

Building Bridges benefitted from a grant of £4,500 from Foundation Scotland to provide Halal and vegetarian meals twice a week to vulnerable low-income families from the local back, asian and minority ethnic (BAME) community who are facing multiple issues including ill-health, mental health challenges or have caring responsibilities.

Pall Singh, director and founder of Building Bridges, said: "Like many people affected by the coronavirus pandemic, many people from BAME communities are struggling on low incomes and need support.

“Being able to provide meals that meet Halal standards is vital as the coronavirus has such a huge and disproportionate impact on particular BAME groups. Small charities like us can make a huge difference, even with a small grant due to our extensive network of local partners and communities. The difference is not only about now but also for the future. Working together and friendships are being made - this is a positive legacy and something to build on in the future."

Giles Ruck, chief executive of Foundation Scotland said: “In this time of national crisis, it has been critical to distribute funds quickly to where they are most urgently needed. Since launching the emergency Foundation Scotland Response, Recovery and Resilience Fund in March we have distributed over £2.7 million in total to over 650 important projects across the country. Building Bridges is a great example of the incredible work achieved by these dedicated groups, they pulled together quickly to offer essential support to some of the most vulnerable people in our society.”

The National Emergencies Trust’s Coronavirus Appeal was launched on 18 March in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. In partnership with UK Community Foundations and its network (UKCF), the appeal is providing vital funds to grassroots charities and groups all over Scotland who are supporting the urgent needs of their communities. All donations made by the public throughout the Final Replay ‘66 show will be match-funded by NatWest up to a value of £1.5 million.

Anyone can donate to the National Emergencies Trust Coronavirus Appeal before, during and after the show by texting TEN to 70820 to donate £10 (+1 std rate message, UK mobiles, 16+ only). Or by visiting www.dowhatyoucan.net