Backing for drive
MP and MSP support store’s campaign
Rutherglen’s MP and MSP have done their bit to support those in need.
Tesco’s National Food Collection held in conjunction with the Trussell Trust and Fareshare at the Rutherglen Tesco Extra store is aiming to break records this year and provide even more people with food and support.
Rutherglen’s Labour MP Tom Greatrex and MSP James Kelly were thanked by Fareshare and Tesco for getting behind the campaign and encouraging shoppers to make a donation on their visit.
Since the first food collection was held in December 2012, combined with new permanent collection points in over 350 stores, together 15.3 million meals have been donated to help feed people in need across the UK.
Speaking for Tesco, community director Greg Sage said: “It’s encouraging that people still think food poverty is a serious issue that needs to be tackled, and so many have donated to food banks as a result.
“This is our fifth neighbourhood food collection, and it’s hugely important that we dig deep and do what we can to help people who are in need this Christmas. This year we want to break records and provide more meals for people in need than ever before.”
Rutherglen’s MSP James Kelly MSP added: “The volunteers at The Trussell Trust make a very important contribution to lives of families in our communities struggling to feed themselves and I am always happy to lend a hand whenever I can.
“I am clear that foodbanks are unacceptable in a country as prosperous as ours, but the work of local volunteers is inspiring. While their efforts should not be necessary I know that they are greatly appreciated by those in need, particularly in the run up to the festive period.
“I thoroughly enjoyed meeting with local volunteers at the Tesco store in Rutherglen and encourage local people to be as generous as they can with donations.”
Tom Greatrex MP added: “I know from previous years when I have met staff and volunteers involved in collections at local supermarkets, including at Tesco’s National Food Collection, customers have responded very generously – and this week long collection has been no exception.
“In a week when there has been a lot of coverage of disturbance at Black Friday supermarket events, the scale of donations here is a much better reflection of the attitude and generosity of people in Rutherglen.
“Whilst it is a sad reflection of the current situation that food collections such as these are even required, the enthusiasm with which the Tesco Rutherglen team have organised their fifth collection, and the generosity of local customers, is truly remarkable.”