Erskine veterans were handed the keys of a brand new mini bus this week thanks to their American Friends.
Established in 2003, The American Friends of Erskine is a registered charity in the USA run by a group of volunteers who fundraise for Scottish veterans in particular, those who live in any of Erskine’s four care homes.
The majority of fundraising activity in America is carried out alongside The Caledonian Club of San Francisco through a range of events, most notably their annual Highland Games in Pleasanton – the largest two day games in the USA.
David Scott, President and Director of The American Friends of Erskine, paid a flying visit to The Erskine Home this month to see the specially adapted 16-seater mini bus which the charity has raised $70,000 (approx. £48,000) to buy.
The bus has been specially designed in order that every single resident of The Erskine Home and Erskine Park can use it no matter what their medical condition. Bespoke features include a broader step; additional grab rails; a purpose built, extra-wide tail lift and brightly coloured rails and seatbelts in dementia friendly colours – making it easier for residents to see and use. Lots of thoughtful adaptions improve safety and ease of access meaning no resident will be prevented from going on a range of day trips and outings.
“For the last few years we set a challenge of raising enough money to fund a mini-bus for Erskine” said David Scott. “Now I have seen the bus it far exceeds our
concept of what it would look like. It’s a very large 16-seater with every inch of technology needed to make life a bit easier for Erskine veterans.
“On behalf of the Caledonian Club of San Francisco, and representing The American Friends of Erskine, we are overwhelmed by the difference this will make and the enthusiasm and excitement for this project from all at Erskine.”
Sara Bannerman Head of Fundraising at Erskine said: “We’d like to acknowledge the tremendous effort of the volunteers at The American Friends of Erskine and The Caledonian Club of San Francisco for all their hard work and support over many years, to raise a substantial amount and allow us to purchase this mini bus which has been adapted to meet the specific requirements and needs of our veterans. We simply cannot thank them enough.”