Cleaning team win Queens Cross award for fundraising

Husband and wife cleaning team, Davie Howie and Marie Keenan, swept up the Making a Difference award at Queens Cross Housing Association’s Pride of Queens Cross Awards. The crowd erupted in cheers as the duo approached the stage to claim their well-deserved prize.

An overwhelmed Davie expressed, “I wasn’t expecting this. This is more than we ever could have asked for.” Their journey to this recognition began while maintaining the Association’s offices in north-west Glasgow, where they discovered Queens Cross’ Wellbeing for Young People’s service and felt compelled to lend a helping hand.

Davie shared, “It came close to Christmas time, and the young people didn’t seem as joyous as other kids typically are during the festive season. So, I decided to dress up as Santa Claus, filled a bag with selection boxes, and made a surprise appearance on Christmas Day. The children were elated, and that marked the beginning of our journey.”

For over a decade, Davie and Marie have dedicated their time to fundraising for the Wellbeing for Young People’s service, which provides shelter and support to individuals aged 16-25 who are either homeless or at risk of homelessness. Their relentless efforts have raised over £30,000, a remarkable achievement acknowledged by the Association at the prestigious ceremony.

The Pride of Queens Cross Awards, held biennially, serve as a platform to celebrate exceptional contributions to the community by employees, residents, community groups, and local businesses. This year, a total of 33 groups and individuals were shortlisted across eight categories, showcasing the outstanding work being done in the community.

Among the winners were Braeside Community Garden, recognised for their community activity award for creating a warm and inviting space for locals. Additionally, Abacus Coffee & Education, a coffee shop that doubles as a tutoring space for young people, was honoured in the local business category.

Shona Stephen, the chief executive of Queens Cross, commended Davie and Marie for their invaluable contributions over the years. She remarked, “They embody the ethos of Queens Cross by making our communities a vibrant and supportive environment. Congratulations to them on this well-deserved recognition.”

Reflecting on the event, Neil McKay, the managing director at Urban Union, the event’s main sponsor held at the voco Grand Central Hotel in central Glasgow, emphasised the importance of community impact. As the delivery partner for Queens Cross in developing over 600 new homes in Hamiltonhill over the next decade, Urban Union is proud to support initiatives like the Pride of Queens Awards.

McKay stated, “The essence of community should never be underestimated. As a business, we aim to leave a positive imprint on the communities we serve. Each winner and nominee at the event has significantly contributed to enhancing the lives of others, and on behalf of Urban Union, I extend my congratulations to all.”