Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank
Verbal update by Mary McGinley, Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank
:
Minutes:
The Group considered an update from Mary McGinley,
Chairperson, Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank. The update highlighted that they
continue to see an increased demand from those finding it difficult to feed themselves or their
families. The update also highlighted the amount of food
bags issued and the amount of adults and children supported between 01/11/21
to 31/01/2022 and from 01/11/22 to 31/01/2023 which reveals an increase of 21%
in food bags issued and an increase of 49.7% in
numbers supported as more families are requiring the support.
It was added that they are very well supported by
the local community with regular donations of food and cash and highlighted
that they have recently recruited new volunteers but there is concern that if
the high demand continues to increase the service will become overstretched.
At the previous meeting the Group had asked Mary
what they could do as a Group to support the Foodbank and Mary advised that
they would like to see better support for people will financial difficulties;
more promotion of the Worrying about Money leaflet and Advisory and Support Agencies to direct those
in need to cash first options which may result in them not needing to attend
the Foodbank.
Discussion
was had around ways the Community can support the foodbank, such as donating of
vouchers or cash. It was suggested that Loyalty Card schemes such as the
Co-op’s may be a good way to donate to the foodbank with the transferring of
points, Councillor Mark Irvine said he would explore the option and see if it
was possible.
Action – Stuart McLean to contact Argyll and
Bute Council, Welfare Rights Team and invite them to attend a future meeting of
the Group.
Decision
The
Helensburgh and Lomond Area Community Planning Group considered and noted the
information provided.
(Reference:
Verbal report by Mary McGinley,
Chairperson, Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank)
: