A NEW community larder has opened in Glasgow, giving locals the opportunity to access affordable food during the current cost-of-living crisis.
Good Food Scotland has opened the new facility in Cardonald, working in partnership with Southside Housing Association, which has provided the space to run the larder from.
It’s based at 12 Swinton Place and will be open Tuesdays from 10am to 1pm and Thursdays between 3pm to 6pm.
Nearby residents can join by paying a monthly £1 membership fee, which will allow them to access affordable food items such as fruit and vegetables, meat, bread, milk, frozen goods, nappies, household products and much more.
Natalie Cameron, larder coordinator, said: “Our opening day on Tuesday was absolutely fantastic. We were blown away by the response.
“Residents of Cardonald came out in large numbers to become members of the larder, and we were extremely busy from the moment we opened our doors to the moment we closed them.
“I was able to speak to so many of our new members who are delighted to have a service like the larder within their community.
“They were so thrilled by the selection of affordable food and essentials that we had to offer as well as their prices, and many were excited to pass on their positive experiences to their friends, families and neighbours who will become members.”
The 24-year-old highlighted how important the larder is for the community.
She added: “As the cost of living continues to rise and more people continue to struggle in silence, the Cardonald Larder is set out to relieve the community of the financial burden that comes with feeding their families.
“Our framework allows residents to access affordable food and essentials without having to be referred or be in receipt of any benefits. We are open to everyone.
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“Members will also be able to access wrap-around services and be signposted to other organisations if they require any further help or assistance.
“It reduces the barriers that are in place for the community to access nutritious food at a low cost whilst giving divinity in choice, and it in turn reduces the knock-on effects of food insecurity and poverty, improving both the physical and mental well-being of the Cardonald community.”
Natalie also praised the kind-hearted volunteers who have done a “fantastic job” with the preparations and development of the larder.
Meanwhile, Chris Stephens, MP for Glasgow South West, said: “I am absolutely delighted that the first day of the Cardonald Larder went so well. The busiest opening Good Food Scotland has had to date and plenty of people from throughout the Cardonald area registering and buying food.”
He thanked all of the volunteers and community organisations who helped put the project together.
Both Govan and Pollok fire stations will be accepting donations for the larder.
For more information and to follow Cardonald Larder on Facebook, click HERE.
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