Kindness to the fore as Give and Take boxes pop up across Perth

A Perth community group has designed an inventive way of sharing food and essential products with people who have been left disadvantaged by the coronavirus outbreak.

North Inch and Muirton Community Council and Zero Waste Perth are collaborating on a project to place up to a dozen Give and Take food boxes across the area including at North Muirton Co-op, Riverside Church and Tulloch Co-op.

Stores and businesses nearby will be asked to encourage shoppers to contribute what they can in terms of tins and dry food, to be used by those in need and at-risk residents.

Community councillor Emma Oram said: “Communities already show practical kindness, and now they can purchase some extra items during their regular shop and place this food in the nearest box for those who need a little bit of help during this challenging time – and the food will be available no questions asked.”

Community Council secretary Grace Sharkey believes although residents are worried, the coronavirus pandemic has brought out the best in people and the food boxes represent her neighbourhood’s way of trying to help as best they can.

Grace also thanked Malcolm Logan from Crieff and Robin Spearing from St Fillans who helped make, paint and install the boxes.

Karen Reid, chief executive of Perth and Kinross Council, said: “The work of all community groups, volunteers and elected members in providing food, medicine and supplies for people across Perth and Kinross has been phenomenal.

“The Muirton, North Muirton, North Inch and Tulloch Give and Take boxes for food and books demonstrates the kindness and compassion of our citizens. A huge thank you to everyone involved.”

Give and Take boxes can also be found at various location on Dunkeld Road, Atholl Street, Gowans Terrace and Barrack Street.

Sam Martens of Zero Waste Perth asked local groups or businesses willing to host a box to contact Zero Waste Perth or North Inch and Muirton Community Council through private message via Facebook or by email: nimcc365@gmail.com

Meanwhile, for those living in the Kinnoull, Bridgend and Gannochy areas of Perth, a community helpline, 0752 165 4105, has been set up to assist vulnerable people requiring essential groceries or medicines.

Kinnoull Parish Church is live streaming a service of worship at 10.30am each Sunday at kinnoullparishchurch.co.uk