Families unable to access food are to benefit from a sizeable share of Scottish Government funding.
Local authorities are being given £30 million via the Scottish Government Food Fund to support those most in need, including families with children eligible for free school meals, older people, those with long-term health conditions and pregnant women.
Councils will have flexibility to use the cash, working with community groups and businesses to support home delivery, provide financial help and meet dietary requirements.
Fife has been allocated just over £2.25 million, Dundee is to receive more than £1.15 million, Perth and Kinross Council is to get £620,000 and Angus will get £602,000.
Mid Fife and Glenrothes SNP MSP, Jenny Gilruth, believes the funding will be targeted where it is needed most.
“Coronavirus has brought enormous disruption to all of our lives, and some people will be concerned about accessing food,” she said.
“This investment will help those in Fife at most risk, such as older people and children eligible for free school meals, to access food through this unprecedented crisis.
“Free school meals are vital for families across Fife and are an important way of ensuring children receive the nutritious food they need.
“That is why it is so important that support continues while schools remain closed.
“This is just one part of the support the Scottish Government is providing to individuals and businesses to protect jobs and incomes.”
News of the funding comes as Ms Gilruth opened a foodbank donation point in her constituency office in Markinch to help individuals and families in need during the COVID-19 outbreak.
The MSP is calling for donations of items such as: UHT milk, toiletries, tinned food and cleaning products, to help those who are struggling local. A full list of items most urgently needed is available on the MSP’s social media.
The funding, one part of the £350 million Communities Fund, will be distributed to councils across Scotland by COSLA.
Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell said: “Local authorities are uniquely placed to respond swiftly in partnership with community groups and organisations to help those struggling.”
