The P&J Charity Gala brings together businesses to support Clan Cancer Support and Abbie’s Sparkle Foundation.

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Generous support from the community
In a remarkable display of community spirit, the recent charity gala hosted by the Press and Journal at P&J Live raised an impressive total of £56,913.99 for two local charities. The event, held on February 21, attracted hundreds of guests from the north and north-east business community, all coming together to support the P&J Community Fund.
This initiative aims to transform lives through charitable contributions and support.
Highlighting local charities
The funds raised during the gala will benefit Clan Cancer Support and Abbie’s Sparkle Foundation, both of which were selected as the charity partners for the next two years.
The announcement of their selection came as a surprise to the charities’ leaders, who expressed their gratitude during a heartfelt video call. These organizations were chosen from a pool of hundreds of nominees across Aberdeenshire, Moray, and the Highlands and Islands, with the final decision supported by over 4,000 public votes.
A night of entertainment and generosity
The evening was filled with laughter and excitement, thanks to the hosting talents of TV star Ben Hanlin, who added a touch of magic to the proceedings. Guests participated in both live and silent auctions, as well as engaging games that fostered a sense of camaraderie among attendees. Notably, £20,000 of the total amount raised was presented to the charities on the night itself, marking a significant kickoff to this new partnership.
Press and Journal Editor Craig Walker expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “The P&J Charity Gala was a fantastic night. It was a great opportunity to showcase our charity partners and raise lots of money for two great causes at the same time.” The managing director of headline sponsor Cala Homes (North), Fraser Carr, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of community support for inspiring local charities.
As the P&J Community Fund continues its mission to support these vital organizations, the impact of the funds raised will undoubtedly provide invaluable assistance over the next two years. The success of the gala not only reflects the generosity of local businesses but also underscores the community’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of those in need.