Formed in 2004, Re-Union Canal Boats has brought a new lease of life to the canal through the building and operation of boats as well as working with a wide range of people to develop practical, social and life skills to help them achieve their full potential.
The investment from Edinburgh Quay Limited, which has been at the heart of the area's regeneration, will enable the charity to produce a greater mix of social and cultural activities, and by doing so, help significantly increase visitor and volunteer numbers.
Pamela Grant, director of Edinburgh Quay Ltd, said: "We are delighted to support this incredibly worthy project which has already brought a number of social, economic and environmental benefits to the area.
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"I'm confident the extra investment will allow the charity to introduce a whole host of new activities at Edinburgh Quay such as art and music events and educational trips all providing even more reasons for people to visit the area and step on board."
She added: "In addition, Re-Union will be able to take on new volunteers to deliver this increased activity and continue its successful employability programme which helps people, from all backgrounds, to return to work, overcome illness or simply make new friends and increase their confidence and self esteem."
Pat Bowie, General Manager from Re-Union canal boats, said: "The donation by Edinburgh Quay Limited is fantastic news and will help us add a new vibrancy to the eastern edge of the canal.
"We are determined to attract a diverse range of customers to Edinburgh Quay who may have not had previous knowledge or contact with the canal or our project."
Re-Union has attracted and engaged with all kinds of people and organisations since its formation four years ago. Groups have included Women Into Work, the Single Dads Club and Clovenstone Primary School.
Edinburgh Quay is located at the Lochrin basin in Fountainbridge and completes the Edinburgh end of the Forth and Clyde and Union canals. The project, which began in 2002, represents two firsts for Scotland; the first public-private development venture for British Waterways and the first canal side mixed-use development.
(GK/JM)
