Foodbank collection points are being introduced at libraries across Perth and Kinross in an effort to boost donations.
A drop-off zone has opened at the Fair City’s AK Bell building, with more due to appear at libraries in Auchterarder, Blairgowrie and Kinross over the next week.
It follows a turbulent time for the busy Perth and Kinross foodbank which recently revealed it may have to move out of its city centre base amid ongoing money problems.
The service launched in 2013 and last year helped feed a record 4,700 people across the region.
Culture Perth and Kinross, which runs the region’s libraries and museums, said it wanted to make it easier for people to donate.
The collaboration was the brainchild of AK Bell worker Sean Hall.
Helen Smout, chief executive of Culture Perth and Kinross, said: “I am pleased to announce that Culture Perth and Kinross will be supporting Perth and Kinross Foodbank by offering these collection points.
“I’d like to thank Sean Hall for flagging up this great idea. Culture Perth and Kinross venues are at the heart of the local community and we are proud to be supporting this valuable service and its dedicated volunteers.
“We know how generous our customers are and that’s why we’re offering collection points for those most in need in Perth and Kinross.”
Last year, the team at the local foodbank team, run by the Trussell Trust in the city’s Cutlog Vennel, fed 4,719 people in crisis, including 1,184 children.
The figure was up nearly 260 people from the year before.
Over the festive period, the group was overwhelmed with donations, taking in four months’ worth of food in just six weeks.
Before Christmas, the charity issued a plea for extra funding. Chairman, the Rev Michael Archibald asked council bosses for help paying the hefty £14,000-a-year rent.
Perth and Kinross Council leader Ian Campbell said the council would help look for cheaper, alternative premises. Sites in residential areas of the city are being considered.
However, other funding options are also being investigated, which may allow the service to stay in the city centre.
