A Moray food bank which recently relocated due to demand has been given a £1,000 cash boost.
Community Food Moray moved to Elgin’s High Street earlier this month, due to increasing demand for its services.
Yesterday, Moray MP Angus Robertson and MSP Richard Lochhead visited the newly opened store, and handed over £1,000.
The money was collected as part of a Christmas card design competition staged by the pair, and will be put towards the outfit’s running costs.
The food bank serves a number of struggling citizens, but concerns have been raised that some people who need its assistance at not receiving the necessary help.
Mr Robertson said: “The food bank has grown to such an extent through the generosity and support of people in Moray.
“But I want to encourage residents to think about how they can help in other ways.
“People may have a vulnerable friend, or an old neighbour who might need some support, and I would urge those people to try to arrange help from Community Food Moray.”
The charity began life in Mosstodloch, between Elgin and Fochabers, in 2011.
Organisers say that as the nation’s finances worsened and welfare reforms took hold they found they needed a bigger storehouse, prompting a move to Elgin’s Batchen Street in late 2012.
Head of Community Food Moray, Jo Roberts said: “By 2013 we saw a big difference – that’s when things really kicked off.
“There has been a big increase since then, and we are still very busy though things have plateaued a bit lately.”
The charity normally issues 32 food packages a week, but in the period leading up to Christmas that number soared to 72.
The independent charity sells vegetables at a market in Keith on the last Saturday of every month, and ensure that fresh produce and recipes are included with every parcel.