£576,000 Covid-19 food fund handout agreed for Borders

That £576,000 handout is part of a £30m national initiative announced by the Scottish Government and being distributed by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities.

It’s intended to help those most in need, including families with children eligible for free school meals, older people, those suffering long-term health conditions and pregnant women.

Holyrood communities secretary Aileen Campbell said: “This pandemic is impacting on all our lives, but for some it is more than a disruption. It is severely restricting their ability to access food for themselves and their families.

“It is vital that we work together to ensure the most vulnerable people in our communities receive the support they need.

“Local authorities are uniquely placed to respond swiftly in partnership with community groups and organisations to help those struggling.

“We know that free school meals are vital for families across the country and an important way of ensuring their children receive the nutritious food they need.

“That is why it is so important that support continues while schools remain closed.

“This fund will help ensure the most vulnerable people in our society during this outbreak receive support.”

The convention’s resources spokesperson, Gail Macgregor, added: “As a result of Covid-19, greater numbers of people are at risk of food insecurity.

“Councils are facing additional challenges in ensuring food reaches those most in need.

“In these challenging times, we welcome the Scottish Government’s announcement of additional funding.”