Members of Aberdeen City Council’s Anti-Poverty and Inequality committee volunteered yesterday (11 December) at Community Food Initiatives North East (CFINE) to assist during this busy festive period.
CFINE is a charity and social enterprise. It improves health & wellbeing and the environment, tackles poverty and builds resilience through a range of support and services for and with disadvantaged, vulnerable, low-income individuals, families, and communities in North-east Scotland.
Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Christian Allard said: “The Christmas period can be a very difficult time for many people and families across our city, particularly with the ongoing cost of living crisis. I am therefore delighted that our committee has been able to support CFINE by helping with their daily activities.
“It was invaluable to see first-hand what happens on a day-to-day basis and assist with the foodbank service as well as speaking with the other volunteers and hearing about their experiences.
“CFINE and many other third sector organisations in the city do an outstanding job all year round, not just during the festive season, but at this time of year it is more important than ever to support families and the people who need it.”
While volunteering, members of the committee assisted with serving on the food bank, making up food parcels and pallets for delivery and serving at the pantry. They were also able to speak with fellow volunteers and hear about their roles and experiences.
Fiona Rae, CEO at CFINE said: “We are delighted that members of the Anti-Poverty and Inequality Committee volunteered at CFINE. Demand for our services is at record highs, so it’s crucial that elected Councillors have an opportunity to see the positive impact that CFINE makes by supporting disadvantaged individuals, families, and communities in Aberdeen.
“Members helped distribute emergency food parcels, supported our community pantries and helped with other support activities needing done on the day. Volunteers are the backbone of CFINE, so we would like to extend our thanks to the Committee for their help and support.”
Anyone in need of cost-of-living support can visit our dedicated webpages for more information: https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/help-cost-living
