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New meal service in Halkirk receives positive reviews


By Jean Gunn

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Volunteer Erin MacIntosh delivering a hot meal to Sandy Bremner.
Volunteer Erin MacIntosh delivering a hot meal to Sandy Bremner.

A new support service in the Halkirk community has seen a great response with around 90 requests for free hot meals in the first week.

The Halkirk Village Council was able to start the Covid-19 support for the elderly and vulnerable thanks to finance from the Halkirk and District Benefit Fund.

"It has really taken off," said Jane MacIntosh, secretary of the village council and also a director of the benefit fund. "The uptake has been unbelievable. Everybody is just so grateful, they are just so thankful to the village council and the benefit fund for everything we are doing. It has proven that there is a huge need in the area."

Speaking on the launch of the service on Monday, she said: "The first round of meals went out this afternoon and the feedback has been really positive – all recipients are delighted with their meal."

The three-course meals, produced by the Ulbster Arms Hotel, are being provided four times a week – Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

Different menus are prepared for each week with a choice of four starters, mains and desserts.

Most of the people signing up for the support have opted to take advantage of the four meals a week which are delivered by a volunteer from mid to late afternoon.

Volunteer Kerry Speirs delivers a three-course meal to Jim Falconer.
Volunteer Kerry Speirs delivers a three-course meal to Jim Falconer.

At present the village council is managing with about 14 volunteers, but if demand for the services increased any further the secretary said they might need to look for more helpers.

This week's service for meals is already closed but names will continue to be taken for future weeks. Those interested in signing up should call 01847 831642.

Volunteers in Halkirk will also help with the collection of prescriptions, mail and shopping.

Through the Halkirk and District Benefit Fund a new packed lunch service is also being provided for children in the community who attend Thurso High School, the local primary school or playgroup.

The packed lunches, prepared by T & B's sandwich shop, will be provided four times a week from Monday to Thursday – starting next Monday (February 1).

Information about the service has already been sent out to all the local pupils along with a consent form.


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