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.
Emma Oram, community councillor, 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 food 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.
“I am humbled to hear of children making greeting cards to add some moments of happiness for residents of care homes who will be unable to see their families.
“A huge thank you to everyone involved and in particular The North Inch and Muirton Community Council for their work on this.”
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
