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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
National
Chiara Pollock

Homeless Project Scotland in 'crisis' as fridge van too old for new low emission zone

Glasgow based charity, Homeless Project Scotland is facing a 'crisis' after their fridge van appears too old to drive in the city's new low emission zones.

The charity has made an urgent appeal in a bid to raise enough money for a new van which would meet the low emission requirements, come June 1.

The organisation say this would deter them from delivering fresh food to Glasgow's homeless and vulnerable - "This means that we are unable to collect and deliver crucial food supplies to some of the most vulnerable people in our community."

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The new zones come into effect on June 1, meaning all vehicles entering the LEZ area will need to meet less-polluting emission standards or face a penalty fee. The initial charge for all non-complaint vehicles in Scotland will be £60 - reduced by 50 per cent if paid within the first 14 days.

The Homeless Project Scotland have created a JustGiving page in hope to gain enough funds for a new vehicle - part of their description reads: "This means that we are unable to collect and deliver crucial food supplies to some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

"The situation has become so urgent, that we are now in need of a new fridge van that meets the low emission requirements. We know that times are tough for everyone right now, but we are asking for your assistance in raising funds for this much-needed purchase.

"The council has deemed collecting food and feeding the hungry as non-essential, but we know that this is not the case. We are determined to continue our efforts to help those who need it most, which is why we are turning to you for help."

They appear grateful for any donations, saying, "Any donation, big or small, can make a difference. By donating, you will be directly helping homeless Project Scotland to continue to collect and deliver food to the homeless and vulnerable in our community.

"Together we can make a real difference. We appreciate anything you can give and your support will not be forgotten.

"Thank you in advance for your generosity and continued support."

Other Glasgow based charities have been in a similar situation - All2gethernow, providing warm meals, clothing and toiletries to the homeless, faced 'devastating' closure in late April due to the new LEZ zones.

Emmaus Glasgow, who offer supported accommodation for 27 people who have experienced homelessness as well as running two weekly soup kitchens and supporting local food banks, were also impacted by the city's new low emission zones.

Like Homeless Project Scotland, both organisations set up a crowdfund in an appeal for the communities help.

Homeless Project Scotland claim Glasgow City Council responded to their appeal by saying: "Thank you for your recent application for a time-limited exemption for the Glasgow Low Emission Zone.

"Exemptions will only be granted in exceptional circumstances and where the organisation applying can clearly demonstrate that timely efforts are being made to comply with LEZ requirements.

"Private vehicles WILL NOT be considered for time-limited exemptions. Your application did not meet the above conditions and therefore a time-limited exemption cannot be granted in this instance. Please note that timely efforts to comply with LEZ requirements would generally require a replacement vehicle to be on order with delivery being awaited."

To support Homeless Project Scotland click here.

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