Scotland’s political leaders have united to back the Press and Journal’s festive foodbank appeal.
The rivals rallied together behind our bid to help ensure squeezed families across the north and north-east enjoy a festive dinner.
Generous readers have already donated hundreds of pounds since Saturday’s launch to help get seasonal produce to households in need.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is among those urging the better-off to support hard-pressed neighbours.
“Christmas is a time for spending with those we love, but it is also a chance to think about those less fortunate than ourselves,” she said.
“While no one should have to rely on emergency food provision in Scotland, I would encourage people to get behind this appeal.”
The P&J has teamed up with Community Foods Initiative North East (CFINE) and the Blythswood Trust to provide cheer this Christmas.
Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale said: “It’s a time of year when families can feel the pressure to spend too much.
“Instead we should be buying only what we need, and I encourage everyone to get into the festive spirit and do whatever they can.
“This is an important campaign from the Press and Journal because it means every family can make a difference.”
The campaign was hailed as “great” by the Scottish Conservatives’ Ruth Davidson.
“We all overdo it at this time of year, and I’m sure that people will be willing to buy just a little less food in order to help families who might otherwise be going hungry.
“This time of year is all about giving, so I would encourage P&J readers to do their bit to spread some festive cheer.”
Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said: “While most of us settle into an armchair, full of Christmas turkey, there are thousands of families across Scotland who aren’t so lucky.
“I hope that everyone who reads this takes the chance to do something to help those less fortunate this Christmas time.”
And Patrick Harvie MSP, co-convener of the Scottish Greens, said it was “appalling that in a land that produces so much good food and drink we see record levels of food bank use”.
“The P&J campaign is an important cause. I hope many people make a contribution to help provide some welcome relief.”
