Supermarket sweeps onto doorsteps with essentials
Staff from Fort William’s branch of Morrisons last week made its 100th doorstep delivery of essential food to elderly and vulnerable customers in need of help during the coronavirus lockdown.
Morrisons has been delivering essential food to those who need it most over the last month or two as well as helping keep Lochaber foodbanks well stocked.
At the outbreak of coronavirus, the supermarket giant pledged £10 million of stock would be set aside for distribution to food banks.
The Fort William store receives a pallet of food a week and, alongside donations from staff and customers, this is distributed to food banks around the area.
‘The Royal British Legion Scotland Fort William Branch has been one of the many we are delighted to support,’ said Morrisons Community Champion Vicky Kelly.
‘It was especially poignant last week as we marked 75 years since VE day and although we can never repay the debt to those who served for us, we are honoured that, through the RBLS, we can show our appreciation and give our support in these difficult times.’
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Morrisons also created a doorstep delivery service to enable their elderly and vulnerable customers to stay at home. Robert McMillan, Fort William Morrisons store manager, said: ‘We don’t want any members of our community left behind whilst we face the coronavirus outbreak. Our customers, their family members or carers can call a dedicated helpline and we will take their order, ensuring they not only receive the basic essentials but their favourite treats too. Our Fort William team then safely deliver to their homes the following afternoon with card payments taken at distance.’
On Tuesday May 5, the 100th doorstep delivery was made to Caroline and Allan Livingston.
A recently retired postman, Mr Livingstone said: ‘Having received an NHS letter advising me to isolate due to medical conditions, this new service provided by Morrisons has been a lifeline.’
Ms Kelly added: ‘It is a pleasure to bring this service to our customers.’
To place an order using the Morrisons doorstep delivery service call 0345 611 6111 option 5. The order line is open Monday to Saturday and orders placed before 5pm are delivered the next day.