School to be turned into distribution hub
A third Renfrewshire school is set to be opened up as a distribution site for support packages during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Response teams from across Renfrewshire Council - which include redeployed staff - have been helping to make and deliver support packs with freshly-prepared meals, toiletries and dry goods for those most in need.
As demand for the service grows, Gleniffer High School, in Paisley, will open next week as a distribution site, in addition to sites already set up at the town’s Castlehead High School and Park Mains High, in Erskine.
More than 37,000 meals have already been delivered to vulnerable people, most of whom have been asked to shield themselves from social contact by staying at home.
Facilities manager Seonaid O’Neil, who was responsible for setting up the service, said: “It’s challenging, but it’s also really rewarding.
“When we started, we didn’t realise how big it would become, but when you get feedback from people in the community it really makes you take notice of the positive impact it’s having.
“We are so proud of how all our staff have adapted to the new challenges they have been faced with to ensure these services are delivered.”
While teams have been working hard at the sites to get packages together, they have also gotten creative with their downtime.
A sponsored charity cycle, where staff can participate by using exercise bikes from the gym, has been set up at Park Mains High to raise cash for charity Brightest Star.
Some team members have been using their musical talents to perform songs and help keep spirits up.
Council leader Iain Nicolson said: “We are proud our staff are delivering essential food supplies to support vulnerable people.
“Their dedication has been incredible and I’d like to thank every staff member doing their bit.”
People who are needing support during the coronavirus lockdown can call the council’s local assistance helpline on 0300 300 0230.