People’s Pantry gets £10k cash boost

A £10,000 funding boost will see Govanhill’s People’s Pantry help members take part in community gardening projects.

The money was granted to Govanhill Baths Community Trust from the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Fund at a council committee last week.

It will be used for planters to help locals garden and a hydroponic wall allowing the pantry to grow its own herbs.

Fatima Uygun, manager of Govanhill Baths Community Trust, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to receive this funding.

“We’re planning on having some new planters installed outside that’ll give our members the opportunity to get involved in some of the community gardening projects we run.

“As well as thinking about food in a holistic way, the pantry is really about wellbeing in our community and building connections with the people who live in it.

“So this funding can really help us do that.

“We’re also going to install a new hydroponic wall so we can actually grow our own fresh herbs from the pantry itself.

“Being able to grow our own produce is really exciting and something that we’re really passionate about.”

Local councillor Soryia Siddique added: “Funding for the People’s Pantry is welcomed. Food poverty is a harsh reality – sadly families are experiencing additional pressure during the pandemic.

“During challenging times there is need for a national and local focus including resources to eradicate poverty and inequality.”