The current lockdown may have disrupted daily life, but it has not stopped communities mobilising and coming together in times of need. In response to the Covid-19 crisis, Carbrain and Hillcrest Community Council have launched a community food initiative to support local people at risk of food insecurity during the pandemic. With funding from the Scottish Government’s Supporting Communities Fund, the initiative is delivering over 300 homemade meals a week to people throughout Carbrain.
To meet the increasing need, the Carbrain and Hillcrest Community Council are working collaboratively with grassroots organisations and local partners, including Tesco Food Share which provides surplus food from its local supermarkets. Referrals are made by a range of partners including SAMH, Central Health Clinic and Cumbernauld Poverty Action.
The Craighalbert Centre have kindly given access to the school kitchen to allow meals to be prepared in a safe and clean environment. The work is also supported by a growing number of volunteers, who are rallying together to deliver food packages, shop for their neighbours and collect prescriptions.
“I like to think we are not just providing food, but a link to many other services that are out there at this time to enable people to feel safe in their own homes. It’s about maintaining a sense of togetherness, and letting people know they are not alone.” Frances Park, Chef for Carbrain & Hillcrest Community Council
At the heart of this, is compassion. Food is prepared for individuals and their circumstances. Carbrain and Hillcrest Community Council have sourced Halal meat, prepared blended food when needed as well as making sure there’s plenty of treats to be enjoyed.
Find out more about Carbrain and the other communities Corra works alongside over at https://www.corra.scot/place-based-working/getting-alongside-communities/
