A food bank chief has hailed the “huge difference” made by the response of Press and Journal readers to our Christmas appeal.
More than a third of a tonne of food and £850 has been given to Community Food Initiative North East (Cfine) in less than two weeks.
That is the equivalent of more than 1,000 additional meals for families facing hardship this festive season.
Cfine chief executive Dave Simmers said he was delighted at the scale of support prompted by the campaign.
He added: “The financial and food donations we have had have really made a huge difference.
“We have been getting the food out to our partners across the north-east, who have then taken it to the families who are most in need.”
“It means people having a Christmas that otherwise would be that much worse for them.
“So it’s a very, very big thank you to the readers of the Press and Journal for their generous support.”
As well as delivering provisions – including festive favourites such as mince pies – across the Grampian region, the boost has allowed Cfine to be “a bit more generous” at its food bank in Poynernook Road.
A donation of Christmas crackers were distributed to those turning to the facility for emergency help – in addition to toiletries and toys for children.
Mr Simmers said: “These little things, that many of us take for granted, can make all the difference when you are struggling.”
Altogether, the appeal has raised almost £3,000 – with the proceeds also helping the work of the Blythswood Trust in the Highland area.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
We have teamed up with two of the best-known operators in the P&J area to fight hunger this Christmas.
Parcels for hard-pressed households in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray are prepared and distributed by CFine (Community Food Initiatives North East).
Across the Highlands, Blythswood Care distributes provisions.
This is how to help – and mention the campaign if possible when making a donation.
Highlands: Call 01349 830777 to give to the trust’s Highland Food bank by credit card, or at www.blythswood.org-/donate where PayPal can be used too.
Cheques, made out to Blythswood Care, with a letter mentioning the appeal, can be sent to: Blythswood Care, Highland Deephaven, Evanton, IV16 9XJ.
Grampian: CFine has a JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com /communityfood-initiatives – please mention the appeal. It also welcomes bank transfers using the following details: Account no: 06359168 Sort code: 80-22-60.
PayPal donations can be made via the “Get Involved” section of the charity’s website at www.cfine.org
Food can be taken to CFine’s base at 2 Poynernook Road, Aberdeen.
