Launched in a classroom in the town’s St Columbkille’s Primary, the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund has given millions of people around the world a hand up out of poverty since 1965.
A charity founded in Rutherglen more than 60 years ago is looking for locals to help make its dream of creating a mural in the town a reality.
Launched in a classroom in St Columbkille’s Primary, SCIAF, the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund, has given millions of people around the world a hand up out of poverty since 1965.
And now that Rutherglen is celebrating its 900th anniversary, SCIAF wants to create a lasting legacy in the Burgh.
Ben Wilson, the charity’s director of public engagement has made Rutherglen his home.
He said: “There are so many great things to come out of Rutherglen and SCIAF is just one of them.
“The world has been through a lot over the past 60 years; climate change, conflict, chaos in our politics.
“But where there has been injustice, where there has been pain and suffering, SCIAF has been there, standing side-by-side and supporting the most vulnerable communities.
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“Now we want to mark all that hard work, and the dedication of our partners overseas and our supporters here in Scotland by creating a lasting legacy – in the form of a large mural right here in Rutherglen.
“Glasgow city centre has so many but not here in Rutherglen.”
SCIAF has attempted to move forward with their plans but have hit some stumbling blocks along the way.
Firstly, SCIAF wanted to approach the residents of the tenement block beside Kwik Fit but that would have meant a cherry-picker being on their land for a few days and they weren’t able to support.
The next option was a gable end in Castle Street, but the charity was turned down by Rutherglen and Cambuslang Housing Association, which owns the building.
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Ben said: “It’s been quite frustrating as we do think the mural would be great for Rutherglen, especially given it’s Rutherglen’s 900th anniversary year.
“But so far we’ve not been successful in securing a good spot.
“We have excellent mural artists lined up, but just no location to put it.
“We now hope that local people can help us by passing on their suggestions.”
The space needs to be close to the centre of Rutherglen as possible – to be near St Columbkille’s Church; have access to allow the artists to create the mural on a cherry-picker; be visible to passing people and/or vehicles; and be structurally sound and even.
The mural also has the support of local politician Clare Haughey, the town’s MP Michael Shanks and Rutherglen Community Council.
Ms Haughey said: “We should be so proud that a charity which has done incredible work across the globe has its roots right here in Rutherglen.
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“At a time when we are celebrating Rutherglen’s past through the 900th anniversary celebrations, I think a mural is a wonderful idea and would ensure SCIAF’s contribution to our town’s rich and varied history can be recognised and remembered.
“SCIAF has my full support and I hope the mural can become a reality.”
If you have an idea for SCIAF, get in touch by emailing ccook@sciaf.org.uk
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