Orkney Foodbank has praised the “phenomenal” donations made by islanders in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
The Kirkwall charity says gifts of both money and food have increased since Covid-19, but the number of people relying on the service has also risen as incomes have reduced or disappeared.
Since March 18, it has received around 60 vouchers and provided food to 170 people – compared to 30 vouchers and helping 47 people over the same period last year.
The charity also recently received a tonne of non-perishable food from FareShare, a charity involved in fighting hunger and tackling food waste.
Rhoda Walker from the foodbank, said: “This is a very welcome move by FareShare, which was made possible with organisational support from Voluntary Action Orkney, Orkney Islands Council, NorthLink and funding from the Scottish Government.
“We know it’s a challenging time for everyone as the coronavirus pandemic unfolds.
“The community spirit in Orkney never ceases to amaze us and the level of donations of food has risen significantly, as have the monetary donations, totalling several thousand pounds, since the crisis has begun.
“Many more have also volunteered as a result.
“But as the donations have increased, unfortunately so have the number of people relying on the Foodbank as incomes have reduced or disappeared altogether.
“We want to stress that we are here to help. Do not go hungry.”
