Charity dash at Dalkeith store raises funds and awareness
A Midlothian resident has helped channel fresh support to children’s hospice care after completing a timed supermarket dash in Dalkeith. Rowanne Moir took part in an Aldi ‘Supermarket Sweep’ inspired by the TV format, raising £437.40 for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) while also taking home an equivalent value in groceries. The event took place on 27 June and formed part of Aldi Scotland’s charity partnership activity.
Moir was selected to attempt a five-minute trolley run, with Aldi Scotland matching the total value of her haul in a donation to CHAS. The retailer said the initiative aims to raise both funds and awareness for families who rely on specialist support during the most difficult times.
Local impact for families in Edinburgh and the Lothians
CHAS provides care in homes, hospices and through teams working in children’s hospitals. In the Edinburgh and Lothians area, the charity currently supports 131 families with services spanning palliative care, respite and wider family support. Emphasising the ongoing need, the charity notes that each week in Scotland three children die from an incurable condition.
“Every week in Scotland, three children die from an incurable condition. CHAS supports families through this devastating reality, providing expert care at home, in our two hospices and through CHAS/NHS teams in children’s hospitals across Scotland,” said Rachel Hamilton, Staff Nurse at CHAS.
For supporters in Midlothian, the Dalkeith sweep offered a practical way to help fund that work while spotlighting the range of care provided locally and nationally.
Participant and partner praise community backing
Moir described the sweep as both enjoyable and purposeful, acknowledging the staff who coordinated the challenge and the cause it benefits.
“The Aldi Supermarket Sweep was not only a great and fun experience, it was also amazing to be involved in raising money for such a wonderful charity,” she said, adding thanks to staff for their support and encouragement.
Aldi Scotland said the sweep remains a regular feature of its calendar. Regional managing director Tom Brearey paid tribute to Moir’s effort and reiterated the company’s support for CHAS.
“Our Supermarket Sweep continues to be a highlight in the Aldi calendar, and we’re proud to partner with CHAS once again to support the incredible work they do. Congratulations to Rowanne for raising an incredible £437 for CHAS while enjoying a well-earned trolley full of Aldi favourites,” he said.
What the figures show
The Dalkeith event combined a community moment with tangible assistance for families living with life-limiting conditions. The snapshot below summarises the key data confirmed by organisers and the charity:
| Detail | Figure / Note |
|---|---|
| Funds raised in Dalkeith sweep | £437.40 for CHAS |
| Groceries won by participant | Equivalent to £437.40 |
| Time allowed | Five minutes |
| Local families supported by CHAS | 131 in Edinburgh and the Lothians |
Why it matters for Midlothian
Events like this bring a national cause into clear view for residents, linking a familiar high-street brand with specialist care delivered close to home. For families in Midlothian and neighbouring areas, CHAS’s model—supporting care at home, in hospices and in hospital settings—means help can be tailored and accessible. While the Dalkeith sweep is just one effort, it demonstrates how local initiatives can channel funds to frontline services.
- Visibility: A busy store setting helps highlight the realities faced by families and the support available.
- Tangible return: Matched contributions turn a short challenge into direct funding for care.
- Local relevance: With 131 families supported across Edinburgh and the Lothians, Midlothian residents are closely connected to the outcomes.
As charity partnerships evolve, the focus for Midlothian will remain on sustained, practical support. The Dalkeith sweep underscored that even a few minutes on the shop floor can add up to meaningful assistance for families navigating serious illness.
