Warm spaces have been set up across Dumfriesshire to help those in need over the cold winter months as food and fuel costs spiral.
Lockerbie held its first session on Saturday in the town hall’s Hawthorn Room.
Spokeswoman Ruth Ritchie said: “The idea for Lockerbie Warm Place (LWP) came from worries about the cost of living crisis.
“Volunteers wished to offer a warm welcome in a warm room to everyone in these dark days, with a bit of companionship, and access to advice and services which might not be easily accessed normally, all accompanied by free hot drinks.
“Each session will have a theme, a charity or local organisation available to chat, including future events planned to offer free advice on staying warm, and cooking on a budget, amongst others.
“On Saturday, Colin Smyth MSP dropped in on his way to catch a train, to chat with locals and to engage with LWP volunteers about how he can assist local people in future. “
She added: “We wish to thank Lockerbie Tesco community champions for generously donating the means to allow volunteers to offer free tea, coffee, hot chocolate and cups of soup.”
The next session will be on Saturday, November 12 from 10am to noon, during which volunteers hope to host a toy swap and are asking people to provide good quality items to exchange. Others are scheduled for December 24, January 28, February 25 and March 25.
Mr Smyth said: “It is a brilliant initiative and I would urge anyone who is struggling or who needs somewhere warm to head along.
“The cost of living crisis is really starting to bite and, as we move into the winter months, many of my constituents are very worried about the cost of their bills.”
Annan Day Centre is offering a warm place for people to meet from 10am to 11.30am every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday for 50p, which includes a drink and a biscuit. A spokesman said: “Don’t be cold or lonely this winter. Our doors are open with lots of services and activities available, or just pop in for a cuppa and chat.”
Staff and volunteers have also launched an appeal for donations to fill boxes to give to “individuals in need”.
The spokesman added: “Anything that people can donate would be greatly appreciated, such as tins, tea bags, coffee, biscuits, and long life milk.
“We are also providing a hot meal, fresh fruit and veg with the box. We have kindlers and blankets available for those that need them. We don’t want anyone to choose between heating and eating.”
Collection points have been put into Atwals store and The Shed and so far they have raised £120.
In Dumfries, Summerhill Community Centre has joined with Galloway Cheddar to launch a new initiative called Mac N’ Cheese Mondays.
The cheese company is also partnering with Fed Up, a community café in Stranraer and the Rhins, to pilot the new social initiative.
