Islands’ Big Food Pack distributes well over 300 boxes of support

The first ‘Big Pack’ of food took place at the end of May at Stornoway Golf Club and was organised by the local Foodbank and Citizens Advice Centre (CAB).

Steve Hankinson of CAB, described the effort: “The volunteers were superb and within one hour all the food was in the Golf Club ready to be put into the boxes.

“It was evident that the community spirit was driving us all along.

“The original plan was to pack 500 boxes in two sessions over two days.

“We were unable to do the full 500 because some of our supplies were limited, but we managed well over 300 boxes in just five hours.”

He added: “Most of these boxes are now within the communities with over 100 boxes being transported by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to Uist and Barra a few days after the pack.”

“We plan to meet very soon and pack the remaining boxes and a good number extra.”

If your community needs some of these boxes (even if you have received some already) please let Steve know (call: 01851 705727 )or contact your usual Foodbank.

If you need any help with food distribution you can also get in touch, including:

If your community provides ready prepared food and you would like some supplies to make these meals.

If you need to collect your boxes contact to arrange a time.

Any individual who wants to ask for a box can use the CnES website.

Those seeking help are being asked to complete the Request for Support form to provide their contact details and the type of support they require.

For those who cannot access online services call the council on 01851 600501.

Steve continued: “Just a reminder that all this food is free and available for all the Western Isles Communities.

“All our thanks again to everyone who helped, to the Stornoway Golf Club and to Stewart’s team at the CnES for the delivery to Uist and Barra.”