A Lanarkshire foodbank has bagged a bumper grant from the National Lottery as it continues to try and help struggling families.
Paul’s Parcels, based in Shotts, was awarded £8178 from the Lottery which will allow the volunteers to enlarge its community fridge which has been a big success with locals meaning it is able to offer fresh food rather than just non-perishable items.
The foodbank is co-ordinated by Tracey Duffy along with partner, Gerry McCann. It takes its name in memory of founder Tracey’s brother, Paul, who died seven years ago, aged just 37.
Speaking to Lanarkshire Live, Gerry said: “This will make a real difference to us.
“The community fridge has made a real difference to people as they are able to get essential items such as bread and milk and we are looking to expand on that. We also are able to provide things like yoghurts, strawberries, chicken and potatoes.
“We have also joined Fareshare which redistributes surplus food to charities that turn it into meals so this grant will help us in a big way.”
With the cost of living crisis expected to deepen later this year, foodbanks such as Paul’s Parcels and other charities are expected to be stretched like never before.
Currently the foodbank helps around 200 people who come through the door every week and also help those in neighbouring villages such as Salsburgh, Harthill and Allanton.
Gerry added: “The demand for our service is growing at an alarming rate so this award is very welcome and needed.
“At the moment we don’t know what October will bring but what we are finding is that people would rather pick up a few things from the community fridge rather than get a bag of messages.
"People are going through a hard time at the moment so it's important we are there for them."
Don't miss the latest headlines from around Lanarkshire. Sign up to our newsletters here.
And did you know Lanarkshire Live is on Facebook? Head on over and give us a like and share!
