Start Up Stirling marks the 10th anniversary of their first crisis food bank this month.
The initiative was established in response to the needs of the people who were living with food insecurity at that time back in 2013.
But the charity says the landmark is far from a celebration - as the demand for their services to support individuals and families who are facing hardship and poverty has never been higher.
In 2022, they had the highest referral rate that they have ever had, when they supported 3,682 individuals, more than a third of whom were children, and provided 124,080 meals.
Start Up Stirling coordinator Julie Christie said: “Instead, we would like to thank all of the volunteers, trustees, staff, referrers, businesses, supermarkets, grant funders and everyone in the community over those 10 years who have put a can into a donation station, held a fundraising event for us, or given a donation through our website, Amazon wishlist or a collecting tin.
“You have helped us to continue to be able to support people living in communities across the Stirling Council area with crisis food.
“We couldn’t do what we do without your help and with over 400 people being helped by Start Up Stirling’s services each week, we have never needed your help more.”
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Among the recent support has been from Stirling and Bridge of Allan Operatic Society (SABOS).
The society is performing ‘Made in Dagenham -The Musical’, until Saturday, April 1 at the Macrobert Arts Centre - and supporting Start Up Stirling’s services with food donation stations and collecting funds at each performance.
Julie added: “Whether it is 1968, where the characters are fighting for equal pay for women, or 2023, people are still experiencing financial hardship.
“Lisa Hopkins (Carolyn Johnstone), Barbara Castle (Jo McKie) and Cass (Bobbi McIntyre) from SABOS came along to the Start Up Stirling warehouse to tell staff and volunteers about the true story behind the show.”
Made in Dagenham the Musical tells the tale of brave, ordinary women who refused to accept lower pay than men for their skilled work in the Ford car factory.
Set in 1968 Essex, the show celebrates a pivotal moment in history – a struggle which continues today not just for women, but for all who seek justice in the workplace. The musical has some catchy songs, gutsy characters and gritty British comedy and it is a celebration of friendship, love and the importance of fighting for what is right.
For more information and to make a donation to Start Up In Bloom campaign this Spring, visit https://startupstirling.org.uk/start-up-stirling-in-bloom for more details, or call 01786 561027.
For more information about “Made in Dagenham - The Musical,” at the Macrobert Arts Centre, contact macrobertartscentre.org/whatson, call 01786 466666, or visit the SABOS website https://www.sabos.org/ or their Facebook page.
