Hard-pressed staff at a Dundee foodbank have hailed the “huge difference” an emergency grant has made to their work.
Staff at Lochee Community Larder last month warned they were one of several city foodbanks running out of supplies.
The foodbank has become one of seven local groups recently supported by Foundation Scotland’s emergency coronavirus fund.
The fund is urging other groups in Tayside to get in touch, promising funding decisions in only three days.
Lochee Community Larder treasurer Mhairi Borland said the £3,400 grant has been broken down over 12 to 14 weeks, allowing them to purchase essential supplies such as fuel and personal protective equipment.
“It has been such a relief to us to use this funding and not have to go looking elsewhere,” she said.
Samantha Roberts, vice-chair of the group, previously appealed for help and warned: “Everything is running out as fast as we get it.”
Foundation Scotland have distributed £1.2 million since launching a new coronavirus emergency fund for charities and grass roots groups.
Local groups supporting those placed at risk by Covid-19 can apply for grants between £1,000 and £5,000.
Giles Ruck, chief executive, said: “In this time of national crisis, it is critical to distribute funds quickly to where they are most urgently needed.
“The Foundation Scotland Response Fund is offering that emergency funding now, we have a typical turnaround time of 72 hours from application to payment.”
Seven local groups have already been successful in applying for more than £24,000 in funding.
Others include £1,000 for Wellbeing Works Dundee to post out a weekly bundle of well-being material.
This reaches around 130 local people in their 50s and over who experience severe and enduring mental health challenges.
More than £4,000 has also been awarded to Dundee’s Shaper/Caper dance troupe to provide online creative activities for children and adults during lockdown.
Mr Ruck added: “Organisations that applied last week have already received essential funds.
“We are assessing some incredible applications from dedicated organisations that are responding quickly and imaginatively to the challenges of COVID-19.
“We are eager to encourage other charities and community groups in need to apply so that funds can continue to reach those most in need through this challenging time.”
The Foundation Scotland Response, Recovery & Resilience Fund is delivered in partnership with the National Emergencies Trust.
