Thousands of Aberdeen residents will receive a cash boost this Christmas to help them combat the cost of living crisis.
Aberdeen City Council will distribute more than 14,000 gift cards to low-income households next month to ease the financial pressure on those less fortunate.
It’s part of a £1.9 million Scottish Government fund, which was set up to help communities bounce back following the pandemic.
Residents in receipt of a council tax reduction will be eligible for the £125 card, which can be spent at nearly 300 Aberdeen shops, including food and clothing retailers.
It comes after other authorities such as Argyll and Bute Council also joined the Scotland Loves Local scheme to give people a “welcome boost” during a challenging winter.
Look out for your gift card letter
The Aberdeen gift cards, which will be administered by Miconex, will be sent out to families between December 7-16 and will be valid for 12 months from the date of activation.
Initial letters with individual activation codes will go out this week.
Council co-leader Ian Yuill said: “As well as putting money in the pockets of vulnerable residents, the economic recovery fund should benefit the city as whole.
“Local shops and services will enjoy a welcome business boost following the Covid-19 pandemic, with the funding going back into the community and supporting jobs.”
Adrian Watson, Aberdeen Inspired chief executive, said there has never been a better time for more local businesses to sign up to the Aberdeen Gift Card.
He added: “This latest, much welcomed intervention by Aberdeen City Council will benefit many households in the city as well as providing a boost to local businesses at a time where it has never been needed more.”
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