Children have been donating their pocket money to help volunteers meet unprecedented demand from vulnerable families in need.
Youngsters unable to take part in Easter celebrations or attend this year’s cancelled Links Market have instead handed their savings to the Cottage Family Centre in Kirkcaldy, following an appeal for support.
Manager Pauline Buchan said she has been overwhelmed by the generosity of everyone who had handed in money, food and toys for those requiring help.
“There’s a lot of negative news about at the moment but we have seen such generosity and kindness from the local community.
“We have been totally blown away by it and are so, so grateful for everyone who has helped us keep going. The strength of community spirit never ceases to amaze us all.”
Among those donating were siblings Melissa and David Williamson from Markinch, who used £80 saved for the Links Market to buy food and nappies.
Their contribution was matched by supermarket, Greens of Markinch, to make a £160 donation.
Local boy Joshua Hadden donated his pocket money to buy food, while £500 was handed in by an anonymous donor.
Food, cash and toys have been provided by numerous other individuals and businesses, while Kirkcaldy artist Susan McGill has designed a limited edition poster to benefit the Cottage and the town’s foodbank.
Fife Council social work and criminal justice staff and a host of volunteers are helping distribute the donations.
Pauline said the centre had had to change the ways in which it supports people as a result of coronavirus lockdown rules and was now keeping in regular contact by phone rather than face-to-face.
“It’s a time of uncertainty and anxiety for everyone but for the vulnerable, worries and concerns are heightened so it’s vital we are still here to help them.
“We, like everyone else, have had to adapt quickly because our families need us more than ever.
“There has been an unprecedented demand for items like food and essential items, as you’d expect, but self-isolation brings additional challenges and issues for vulnerable children and families.
“We need to keep going and get our families through this so anything the community can continue to do to help us would be really welcome.
“As the weeks march on, the need gets greater so we have to work harder.”
Anyone who can help should contact the Cottage via its Facebook page.
