‘Give and take’ in Blackford
Residents in a Strath village have been praised for their willingness to help others during the coronavirus pandemic.
A ‘give and take foodbank’ has been set up outside Blackford Parish Church to allow people to donate any additional items purchased during a shop “to those who need a little bit of help during this challenging time”.
Situated under the church’s distinctive Bell of Hope, separate plastic boxes allow packet foods, jars, bottles and tubs, tinned food, fresh food and toiletries to be either donated or picked up.
There are also plastic and takeaway-style foil dishes, with lids, available to use to encourage people to share food cooked at home with their neighbours while simultaneously adhering to the government’s rules on social distancing.
Another option comes in the form of thermal cups, again with lids, to promote potentially sharing additional soup or a hot drink with others in the community.
Gordon Roy, one of the session clerks at Blackford Parish Church, said the project was something the church wanted to do “to help the people of Blackford help the people of Blackford.”
He said: “So many people in the village said they wanted to find a way of helping other people and this is one way they can do it.
“Anyone in the village can use it – the message is very much ‘give what you can, take what you need’.
“There’s never been a foodbank in the village but, if there was, it might’ve been the case it would’ve had to have close temporarily because it was in a public building.
“This way it’s outside, covered and accessible for everyone - all while still being discreet.”