THE Press has once teamed up with the Dunfermline Foodbank in a bid to ensure nobody goes hungry in West Fife.

With rising costs and inflation rates hitting a 41-year high towards the end of last year, it's no surprise that people have been struggling, and the Foodbank has been a lifeline for many in these tough times.

But now, the Foodbank too is struggling, and it needs the help of our readers.

Sandra Beveridge, Dunfermline Foodbanks project manager, told the Press: "We have been here for the last 10 years and as shocking as that is, we are needed now more than ever.

"The cost of living crisis is affecting us all, however, those on low incomes and claiming benefits are really feeling the pinch. So far in this financial year we have surpassed the number of people we helped in the previous year, and it is rising rapidly as the winter months go on."

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Kind-hearted readers supported Sandra and her team over the festive season and donated toys to kids across West Fife through our Toy Appeal.

It was such a success in helping the Foodbank offer Christmas cheer to those in need that we are now looking for the public to help again.

She continued: "We were extremely grateful to take part in the toy appeal in the Dunfermline Press in December and now for them to offer us a food appeal is amazing and couldn't come at a better time as donations drop and the winter bills take a grip on people."

This appeal is generously supported by Stagecoach. The bus company's East Scotland managing director, Douglas Robertson, commented: "We're honoured to be a sponsor for this appeal, which aims to ensure no-one goes hungry in these extremely challenging times.

"Local communities are at the heart of everything we do, and we're very proud to serve Fife."

Dunfermline Press:

On Thursday, March 16, we will be including a free donation bag in that week's edition of the Press and we are asking that, if you can, you give a small donation to the Foodbank.

The Foodbank quickly runs out of household items, such as tinned foods including meat, fish, potatoes, vegetables, long life milk, coffee and tea, sugar, and toiletries. They are also in need of Pot Noodles, Cuppa Soups and Mug Shots as they are ideal for clients who cannot afford or access cooking facilities.

With the help of our readers, we can make sure that the Foodbank has enough stock to help those who need it this year.

Sandra added: "Even if people could donate one item a week it really helps.

"We have Permanent Collection Points in all local Tesco and Asda stores, or you can drop donations off at our Warehouse at Unit 1C, Pitreavie Business Park, Dunfermline, KY11 8UN on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday, between 4pm and 6pm.

"We can't thank the Dunfermline Press enough for running this food appeal for us and we sincerely hope it is as successful as the toy appeal."