How Refreshing!Food bank opens

Kilsyth Community Foodbank was officially launched in the town’s Cafe Refresh last Wednesday and offers donations of food to those who need it the most.

The scheme works on a referral system but those in need can call a helpline if they feel they would benefit from the food bank.

It was set up by Lesley Murray, Jill Shepherd and Debbie McFarlane in conjunction with Kilsyth Community Church, and the group will need donations from you if they are to be a success.

Donations of food items can be made to Cafe Refresh on the Main Street, Kilsyth Community Church and the KCC Kids Club.

Volunteers can also collect donations from your home.

Lesley said: “The country is in a financial crisis and no one should have to go hungry which is why we set up the food bank.

“We identified a need for this service and it is open to everyone from single parents to pensioners.”

The scheme has been welcomed by Kilsyth councillors Heather McVey and Jean Jones.

Councillor McVey said: “The food bank will ensure that no-one in our community goes to bed hungry.

“The food bank will enable those who can to deposit nonperishable food stuff to provide an essential food deposit to those who need it.

“Food bank users are in work or not, family groups or single, parents with children or individuals young and old. No-one knows when one big bill or a redundancy or an unanticipated expense will cause hardship.

“The food bank means that help is at hand locally to see people through their time of crisis.

“I am saddened and angered that we as one of the richest countries in the world has hunger in its society but I am heartened that there are caring people in Kilsyth who want do something positive to help.”

Deputy Provost Councillor Jones added: “A service like this will sadly be needed more now than every before because of all the changes in benefits.

“I 100 per cent support this venture and it was great to see so many people along to the launch event. If you can afford to assist just buy an extra tin with your shopping and hand it in the Café Refresh or one of the other drop off points but also if you know somebody who could benefit from this let the volunteers know and all cases will be kept confidential.

“I wish the project every success and look forward to working the group.”

The community food bank operates out of UP Lane on Mondays from 12pm to 2pm, and 6pm to 8pm.

For more information, contact by e-mail [email protected] or call 0800 978 8701.

You can also visit www.kilsyth
communityfoodbank.com