HUNDREDS of items to help people in dire need across the Three Towns and beyond have been handed over to the North Ayrshire Foodbank - and it's all thanks to readers of the Herald.
Every copy of our April 24 edition came with a free paper bag inside.
We asked our readers to take that bag to their local shop and fill it, or fill as much of it as you were able to afford, with items suitable for the food bank.
And the food bank's co-ordinator has led the messages of thanks to the kind-hearted readers of the Herald who got behind the appeal.
Craig Crosthwaite said: “As we are now at a point where we have depleted our winter stocks we are grateful for every tin and packet that is coming in.
“It’s a very difficult picture with the cost of living crisis – our donations always dip at this time of year so it’s a welcome boost.
“Although the donations go down, requests don’t, so readers responding to the appeal is fantastic.
“Their generosity is what’s keeping food on the tables of men, woman and children who are struggling.
“It is only because of their generosity that the food bank is able to do that.”
The campaign is being backed by sponsorship from Glasgow-based company Colourfence, run by Ian McConnachie, who has family links with the area.
He has been incredibly encouraged by the response from readers so far and is hopeful this can continue on the coming days.
Ian added: "I just wish to thank everyone who has made a donation so far.
"Times are tough for everyone and it is outstanding to see so many people have reached out to help those who need it most.
"The foodbank is a vital service which so many people rely on, I hope that we can continue to support this and the families who rely on it.
"Every little helps so, if you are able to, please give what you can."
Craig Borland, deputy group editor of Newsquest's West Scotland weekly titles, which includes the Herald, added: "We know the Herald's readers are brilliant at rallying round to support people who need a helping hand.
"Even though the cost-of-living crisis is hitting everybody in the pocket in one way or another, we were confident that the Herald's readers would answer the call, and it was wonderful to see our North Ayrshire Foodbank appeal attract such fantastic support."
The North Ayrshire Foodbank is located at the Church of the Nazarene in Glasgow Street, where donations can be handed in on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9am until 2pm, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10am until 2pm, and Fridays from 10am to 2pm and 6pm to 8pm.
To find out more about the food bank, and how it might be able to help you or someone you know who is struggling, see northayrshire.foodbank.org.uk, email info@northayrshire.foodbank.org.uk or call 01294 601312.
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