Wishaw Community Foodbank volunteers have revealed the huge extent of work that has been undertaken in the past 12 months as demand continues to increase.
The foodbank, which is run by members of South Wishaw Parish Church, have been helping to feed hungry individuals and families within the community.
The foodbank opens to the public twice a week, on Tuesday and Friday mornings. It will close its doors for the Christmas holidays on Friday, December 20, and won’t reopen until Tuesday, January 7, but gave extra provisions to those using the service to tide them over the festive period.
Ian Lindsay, a member of the management team at the church, said: “We have been very busy and with the larder in Coltness closing in the near future, we are anticipating that we are going to be busier than ever.
“Over the past few months we have seen a rise in people who are working and working families.
“Our last day before Christmas is December 20 and until then we are giving people three times the amount of tins to help people and keep them going over the festive period.
“All of our volunteers have been working hard to keep things going and the support we have received from members of the public and groups have made a real difference.
“The local Tesco and Morrisons have been terrific so we are very fortunate.”
Launched in April 2021, the church took over the reins from Basics Foodbank which formerly operated the service in the town.
Other support services available at the church include the New Life Recovery Hub, which is run in partnership with the Street Connect organisation, and a drop-in cafe.
The recovery hub helps people with alcohol and other addiction and life-controlling issues
Ian’s wife and fellow foodbank volunteer Mari added: “Sometimes it can be heartbreaking when you see people coming in who are so desperate.
“We have tea, coffee, filled rolls and after speaking to them, they are up and smiling and it gives you hope that things will improve.
“As Christians we believe in helping other people. It’s what Christmas itself is about.
“People always give so generously at this time of year. They will always give that little bit more.
“However, come January and February, the donations will drop off and that’s when it will very difficult because the demand will remain, probably more so as the larder in Coltness is closing.”
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