Foodbank extends reach to southsiders in need

The Auldhouse church will act as a distribution centre in partnership with the Govanhill-based foodbank, both under the national Trussell Trust banner.

Pastor Don Palmer told The Extra: “The Govanhill Elim branch has been running for 18 months and they’re snowed under — finding that people are walking quite a distance from the southside.

“They can’t meet the needs of people in Govanhill because of clients from places like Shawlands, Pollokshaws and Thornliebank, so we’re trying to serve that community — it’s a real need at the moment.”

Trussell Trust banks operate by referral, and leaflets are being distributed to official buildings nearby — GP surgeries, council and NHS buildings, Citizens Advice — which must be filled in and signed by a member of the organisation, confirming a genuine need.

Clients are then given three days of emergency supplies.

Donations are being stockpiled in the church’s basement storeroom, and already, Hutchesons’ grammar school and Tinto primary have offered to help.

Pastor Palmer and volunteers will be collecting at Morrisons in Newlands throughout Saturday, October 26, before a grand opening on Nov 2, 1-2.30pm, for anyone interested in being involved.

He added: “Our hope is to have referrals in by the next week.

“The interest so far has shown how many good people there are out there, who care and want to do something about the growing need for these foodbanks. They’re realising that it could be them asking for food in the next month or year.

“It’s the kind of good news story we need to hear in amongst all the bad news.”

Anyone interested in attending the opening event is asked to RSVP — to find out more, email [email protected], visit www.necglasgow.org or call 637 6077.