Stewartry Food Bank is bracing itself for a spike in demand as the economic toll of Covid-19 grows.
The service moved into the former James Kirk and Sons shoe shop on King Street two weeks ago.
In that short time referrals have rocketed by more than 30 per cent as families struggle to make ends meet.
Castle Douglas Development Forum (CDDF) and Dumfries agency First Base jointly operate the service.
CDDF project development officer Sarah-Jane Allsopp said: “People are losing their jobs.
“We have had a one third increase in people seeking help in the past two weeks.
“There has been such a jump suddenly. I fear there will be a steady increase in individuals and families out there who can’t feed themselves and can’t survive.
“Winter is always a difficult time to get through. We are just trying to prepare for the community if they need us.”
She added: “Castle Douglas looks like quite a prosperous town but it’s not. There are areas of poverty throughout it.”
CDDF, formerly based at the Heart of Galloway Visitor Centre on Market Hill, has an initial lease at Kirk’s until March 31, 2021.
The bigger premises means operations are being expanded to include retail and meeting facilities.
And a new member of staff will be appointed tomorrow following interviews yesterday.
Sarah-Jane said: “The front shop will be a retail area available as a pop-up shop for local organisations, small businesses and anyone that needs access to a prominent retail space.
“It will allow small operators to test out their products from a high street site.
“People can rent space for as little as a day or a week.
“The middle area will be developed as a meeting area and interview room .
“It can be used by support organisations to meet with clients with particular needs.”
She added: “The whole point of this site is to assist the community through the times ahead which could be difficult.
“The move to new premises shows that the food bank is not going anywhere.
“People can still get access to the things that they need. We will carry on as long as there’s a need for us.”
The food bank is open from 12pm to 2pm Monday to Saturday with access through the Douglas Arms car park.
Anyone who needs assistance can contact the helpline on 07730 788335.
The project is supported by funding from the Scottish Government and charitable trusts.
