WIREDGOV

People who have to access Scotland’s foodbanks will receive help through a support package of £1 million over the next two years, the Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed today. 

Around £500,000 will be given to organisations who work with those in need, and are helping to address the unprecedented demand for foodbanks, through the Scottish Government’s two-year ‘Emergency Food Aid Action Plan.’

£500,000 will also be given to the charity FareShare which redistributes food from supermarkets to communities and charities.

According to The Trussell Trust, the number of people who used foodbanks between April 2013 and February 2014 rose to 56,000, compared to around 4,100 people in that same period in 2010 and 2011.

Ms Sturgeon said:

“Today I can announce the Scottish Government will be providing £1 million over the next two years to support work which will help combat food poverty in Scotland.

“One of the most depressing trends over the last few years has been the rapid rise of food poverty in our country.

“More worrying still is the alarmingly high and growing number of children affected by food poverty. It is disturbing to hear of foodbank providers in Glasgow who are having to include nappies in their emergency parcels.

“The only upside to the foodbank story is seeing communities coming together, gathering and distributing food for those in need. It is important that we recognise these people and organisations, including some of our major supermarkets, who are providing this valuable support.

“FareShare are already providing a vital lifeline to thousands of people across Scotland. We want to help them support even more people and make sure those driven to use foodbanks as a result of the UK Government’s welfare reforms are able to access appropriate advice and support.

“Most people recognise that the increase in foodbank use is directly linked to welfare reform and benefit cuts. Only an independent Scotland will have the full powers we need to protect people from poverty and help them fulfil their potential in work and life.”

Carol-Anne Alcorn, FareShare Edinburgh and Cyrenians Interim CEO said:

“FareShare addresses two key issues that face society, food poverty and food waste. Our partnership with the food industry allows us to safely handle surpluses from growers, manufacturers and supermarkets and to get this food to a wide range of Scottish organisations who support those in need.

“This funding will allow us to expand our services and reach. FareShare will now be able to develop regionally and expand beyond Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and Aberdeen.”