Glasgow Builder Marks 80 Years With £25K Donation

McTaggart Construction is celebrating 80 years of building homes by helping people who don't have them.

The Glasgow-based company donated £25,000 to Simon Community Scotland, a charity supporting people experiencing homelessness across the country. The gift marks the firm's 80th anniversary and reflects its commitment to the communities it has served since 1945.

"Marking our 80th anniversary has given us the opportunity to reflect on the communities we've built and worked in over eight decades," said Janice Russell, managing director of McTaggart Construction. She explained that supporting the charity's work, especially for women experiencing homelessness, felt like the right way to celebrate.

Much of the donation funds the Connect Hub in Glasgow, a safe and specialist space for women experiencing homelessness. The contribution covers two weeks of running costs for the facility, which provides crucial support services in a welcoming environment.

The remaining funds support several initiatives. Some money goes toward experience days and opportunities in North Lanarkshire, helping people gain skills and confidence. Another portion funds the Make a House a Home program, which helps people transitioning into permanent housing after experiencing homelessness.

The charity also received support to improve community gardens connected to its Managed Alcohol Programme. McTaggart Construction employees rolled up their sleeves to help upgrade the outdoor spaces, turning their celebration into hands-on community service.

The Ripple Effect

This donation represents more than a one-time gift. McTaggart Construction employee Sarah Freel has joined the Connect Hub as an ambassador, creating an ongoing partnership between the company and the charity.

The £25,000 contribution is part of a larger £80,000 charitable giving program the company launched to mark its anniversary. By spreading support across multiple organizations, McTaggart Construction is creating positive change throughout the communities where it works.

Lorraine McGrath, chief executive of Simon Community Scotland, praised the company's approach. She noted that the team demonstrated exceptional understanding of the charity's values and directed funds to areas that make real differences in people's lives.

Eight decades of building homes has led to one powerful anniversary gift: helping ensure everyone has a safe place to call home.