The Kilmarnock Standard has been inundated by generous donations for our annual food bank appeal.
Almost 70 bags were dropped off at the Kilmarnock Standard offices throughout December after we launched our festive campaign.
Ayrshire (East) Foodbank, who have been supporting the most vulnerable in the community for over five years, is run almost entirely by volunteers and is supported by Voluntary Community Organisations (CVO) East Ayrshire.
Health and wellbeing manager Angela Gracie told the Kilmarnock Standard how the food bank reached 6700 people, including 2000 children this year.
With demand for the service expected to rise again, donations are essential to ensure the survival of the lifeline.
While on average they distribute 6.5 tons of food a month, the organisation only take in around 3.5 and 4.5 tons of donations a month, meaning there is a constant struggle to ensure everyone in need is provided for.
Angela said: “Without the generosity of the community, food banks like us would not be here.
“We are far and wide reaching and we would be lost without volunteers.”
Kilmarnock Standard Editor Colin Paterson said: “I’m delighted with the response we received from readers to our appeal and thank you to everyone who took the time to pop in with bags.
“Sadly, Christmas can be a particularly challenging time for some of the most vulnerable members of society and it’s vital, as the local paper, that we do our bit to support those most in need.”
The food bank operates across East Ayrshire. You can visit ayrshireeast.foodbank.org.uk/ for further information.
