Apex Dumfries officially opened its doors to the new Dumfriesshire foodbank on 24th July 2015. The launch was well attended by local churches, referral agencies, press, Trussel Trust and Tescos Extra staff.
The day consisted of talks and presentations by Ewan Gurr, Scottish Network Manger for Trussel Trust. Fiona Dalgleish, Apex Dumfries Centre Co-ordinator and David Mundell, Local MP for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale. This allowed us the opportunity to raise and highlight poverty issues within Dumfriesshire with the aim of eventually eliminating the need for local and national foodbanks.
Dumfries is currently ranked 17th highest out of 32 Scottish council areas with regards to levels of poverty being experienced. Some locations within Dumfriesshire feature in the top 5% areas of multiple depravation. The population of Dumfries and Galloway also suffers from levels of ‘extreme fuel poverty’ above the Scottish average. This Highlights these areas as being on par with some of the most disadvantaged urban areas in Scotland.
These factors contribute to the increased demand on foodbanks.
Dumfriesshire foodbank aims to provide a minimum of 3-day emergency food and support to local people in crisis. We offer a holistic approach to individuals who access the foodbank to help them overcome any barriers and challenges that may encourage dependency on the service. We have created a relaxed environment where, regardless of circumstances, individuals can access the service and find the help they need. The foodbank is run by volunteers and Apex staff who assist our clients in the initial process of preparing and receiving the food parcels and also help to identify further help that may be needed.
We aim to help eradicate food poverty within Dumfriesshire and would like to thank everyone who has contributed and supported us during this time. Without the kind food donation fro the local community we would not be able to support local people in crisis.