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College of Science and Engineering

College of Science and Engineering

News and stories from the College of Science & Engineering

Lending a festive helping hand at The Cottage Family Centre

Could you imagine Christmas without gifts under the tree or a warm meal to share?

For many families across Scotland, this is the reality they face. That’s where The Cottage Family Centre in Kirkcaldy comes in, offering a lifeline to those who need it most. Every year, their Christmas Appeal makes sure that families who are struggling don’t have to go without during the festive season. They provide essential support—food, warm clothing, household items, and gifts—helping to lift the weight during a time that can be incredibly tough for families, especially when children are involved.

This year, the Cottage’s Christmas Appeal is their largest yet, aiming to support 2,000 children and their families across Kirkcaldy and the surrounding areas. It’s a huge effort, but one that truly makes a difference. And this incredible initiative wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of local people and businesses, who donate toys, money, and their time to ensure that families don’t have to face the holiday season alone.

That’s why a team from the College Office in the College of Science and Engineering spent a day volunteering at the Centre through our Day to Make a Difference scheme. We were also able to bring along a donation of toys and gifts generously collected from our staff, which would go towards spreading some much-needed Christmas cheer.

Left to right: Cat Short, Alison Fitch, Wendy Hisbent, Tessa Rundell, and Lizzie Mann from the College Recruitment and Admissions and Engagement team

We rolled up our sleeves and helped unload, sort, and pack toys and gifts for distribution. The atmosphere was full of energy and purpose, with other local volunteers from Babcock and Lloyds Banking Group all working toward the same goal: bringing a little Christmas magic to families who need it most. Knowing that the toys we packed would put smiles on children’s faces or help families feel a little relief this Christmas made the day truly special and rewarding.

A teddy bear that will be given to a child in Fife for Christmas

Even a small amount of time and effort can make a world of difference in someone’s life. As we worked alongside the Cottage Family Centre staff, we learned more about the incredible support they provide throughout the year. Originally set up by a group of local parents in 1987, the Centre offers a variety of services for families, adults, and children in the community. Whether it’s through group sessions to help adults improve their parenting skills, or child-focused activities like the crèche, Baby Café, and Little Seedlings, the Centre provides countless opportunities for families to bond, play, and grow together, all while building confidence and strengthening relationships.

Gift labels for the children’s presents

If you’re feeling inspired by what the Cottage Family Centre does, why not find out more about our Day to Make a Difference scheme? It’s a great way for teams to give back to the community and support local initiatives that make a real difference in people’s lives. Together, we can help ensure that more families receive the help and support they need, especially during challenging times like the holiday season.

The Cottage Family Centre

Day to Make A Difference

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