40 years of generosity at St Timothy’s

SCIAF staff member, Elaine McGinlay, has returned to her old primary school for a fundraising celebration – just like she did as a pupil 40 years ago. 

Elaine, from Greenfield, posed for a newspaper photographer with her headteacher and classmates at St Timothy’s Primary School in celebration of their fundraising for SCIAF in 1986 – and returned recently representing that very charity. 

Elaine now works for SCIAF as Development Education Officer and her son, Matthew (6) is now in P1 at St Timothy’s. 

She said:

“We are so proud of the school and it’s so nice to be able to come back 40 years later and to receive the cheque for SCIAF. 

“When I was here in P1 in 1986 we fundraised the huge amount of £450 and today in 2026 St Timothy’s have again raised an amazing amount for SCIAF of £500.” 

The pupils raised the money during Lent, for SCIAF’s WEE BOX appeal. 

St Timothy’s deputy head Katrina McDonnell said:

“We launched the campaign, just asking for extra pennies and the classes were reminded how lucky we are here in Glasgow. Sometimes children don’t see how fortunate they are; we are in an area of high deprivation; there is poverty but not to the same extent as in the countries where SCIAF work around the world. We have free education, free meals and other communities just don’t have that. 

“Yes, there is deprivation in the east end of Glasgow, but they still gave what they could. It’s all about giving what you can and I truly believe everyone in the school gave what they could. 

“I think the people of Glasgow are renowned around the world for their generosity and for being very much aware of people less fortunate. The fact is that in the east end, with the cost of living as it is, it’s a really difficult thing but our parents actively give to charity, no matter what their circumstances are.” 

Elaine added:

“My love for SCIAF started here in St Timothy’s Primary – I am so lucky to now work for SCIAF. We were always fundraising for SCIAF; learning about people around the world and how we could help others. I’m proud that the tradition is still going strong at St Timothy’s in Greenfield.”