Foodbank deliveries in demand

THE foodbank centre in Thurso had a hectic day on Friday with emergency deliveries being made in outlying areas including Castletown and Portskerra.

Caithness Foodbank steering group member Pat Ramsay said: "Thurso was particularly busy on Friday and they had a number of deliveries to make – I think they had 16 deliveries."

High Life Highland staff volunteers have been supporting the cause during the coronavirus crisis and helping to make deliveries locally.

Pat said: "Thursday in Wick was also busy. Last week we had over 50 emergency food supplies sent out."

Usually people would collect their food parcels from the centres in Wick or Thurso. However, with the coronavirus lockdown, all supplies need to be delivered.

Caithness Rural Transport has also been helping out with a special delivery being made to Lybster on Friday.

Those requiring help need to first contact a local agency such as Caithness Citizens Advice Bureau, Pulteneytown People's Project, Home-Start or the Community Mental Health Team or phone Highland Council's Covid-19 helpline on 0300 303 1362 for assistance.

Grant Ramsay, chairman of Caithness Foodbank, said: "We have been inundated with donations of food and money from individuals and organisations."

Any member of the public wishing to donate food items can do so at various collection points, including Tesco, the Co-op, Lidl, KeyStore and B&M in Wick; Fraser's store, the Co-op, Bews and Lidl in Thurso; and McColl's in Castletown.

Anyone wishing to make a cash donation should contact the organisation at info@caithness.foodbank.org.uk

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