Save Our Scotland Campaign Update
Faced with the loss of $35 million in income, the prospect of widespread layoffs, and even the potential sale of historic properties, the National Trust for Scotland asked for our help. Hundreds of you responded over the summer and thanks to that generosity NTSUSA has committed $500,000 to the Trust’s Save Our Scotland appeal – the most important initiative our organization has undertaken in its twenty-year history.
And we have already made a real difference. With our help, the Trust is taking steps toward recovery. Where safe, properties have been able to reopen, more than 200 jobs were saved, and the Trust has restarted key conservation projects at Newhailes (which played such an important part in the international Enlightenment), Gladstone’s Land on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile, and the House of Dun, which soon will incorporate the collection of the Angus Folk Museum collection, currently in storage.
Glencoe
Supporters took part in their own fundraising activities to help raise money for the Save Our Scotland appeal. US-based George Russell (aged 74), whose family has links to the charity’s foundation, completed a 3,000 mile cycle across the states from California to Florida; and Trust Patrons Simon and Bridget Fraser took on a 100km walk along the Berwickshire coast, raising over £15,000 to help secure the charity’s future.
George Russell is cycling across the USA in support of the Save Our Scotland appeal.
The Trust also teamed up with bespoke Highland tartan designer, Prickly Thistle, to create two limited edition tartans that represent the charity’s importance in protecting Scotland’s heritage with all profits going to the SOS appeal.
Prickly Thistle are producing two tartans in support of the appeal
Philip Long, Chief Executive of the National Trust for Scotland said: ‘We asked our members, donors and the public to help us raise £2.5million to allow us to continue our crucial work in caring for and protecting Scotland’s built and natural heritage. They went much further than that, and to date we have been blessed with contributions of £3.4 million. Without this financial support, the future of the Trust would be extremely uncertain.
‘We’re overwhelmed, encouraged and extremely grateful for all the donations we have received. Due to the unforeseen circumstances of the pandemic, our properties were closed and many of our projects have been paused. The work we do to care for and protect everything that makes Scotland so special was in jeopardy, and while we’re still on the road to recovery, this support will now allow us to continue protecting Scotland’s heritage.
‘I would like to also thank our members who have continued to support us through their membership over the past seven months. Your support is invaluable and helps us do what we do for the love of Scotland. We look forward to welcoming you to a Trust property soon.’
Save Our Scotland Emergency Appeal
We need your help, more than ever. Please help us protect Scotland’s heritage by following the link below to make a donation to the appeal.
