Additional £1.6m given to charity dealing with food insecurity

The FareShare charity, which redistributes food from suppliers to charities and organisations including local authorities, will receive the funding

People at risk from food insecurity due to the COVID-19 outbreak will receive further support as £1.6m is added to a project funded by the Scottish Government’s Food Fund. 

The FareShare charity, which redistributes food from suppliers to charities and organisations including local authorities, will receive the funding.  

The charity has distributed almost 3.5 million meals since 23 March, the Scottish Government said.

The government says the money will help FareShare purchase more food for local authorities, community-run initiatives and frontline charities across Scotland.

Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell said: “At this difficult time, it is more important than ever that we tackle food insecurity by supporting the work of community food distribution groups across the country who are best placed to ensure vital supplies reach those who need it most.

“By working in partnership with FareShare and their partners in communities across Scotland, this extra funding will help frontline charities and community food groups provide support to even more people in need. 

“I would encourage anyone who is struggling to afford or access food during these challenging times to contact our national helpline on 0800 111 4000.”

Head of FareShare Scotland Gillian Kynoch said: “We are experiencing an enormous pull on our resources during these challenging times. While food companies continue to make their surplus food available to us, the need in communities for support with additional food remains great.

“This additional £1.6 million will enable us to top up our food supplies through the coming months and keep on providing food to the frontline organisations caring for and supporting people hard pressed by the current crisis.”

Leader of Highland Council Margaret Davidson said: “The strong collaboration between the council and FareShare has benefited the many households who have been receiving nutritional food parcels from our local community hubs since lockdown began. In addition to the food supplies for the council, FareShare continues to supply a wide range of community groups across the Highlands who in turn are ensuring local households are nourished.

“Our welfare team continues to carry out benefit checks ensuring that all benefits are claimed, including the Scottish Welfare Fund.”