North-east chip shop puts ‘one in the net’ for local foodbank

AN Ellon chip shop has partnered with a local food bank to encourage diners to ‘put one in the net’ and pay forward a fish supper.

The ‘pay it forward’ model is one that’s best known in coffee shops, where customers can choose to pay for a suspended coffee which is then gifted to someone who might not otherwise be able to afford it.

Now Jax Food Bar on Ellon’s Bridge Street has launched a similar scheme – and the owners hope to raise enough vouchers to gift to every service user at the local branch of the Aberdeenshire North Foodbank.

Lynne Sharman, owner of the chip shop, said: “This year we’re acutely aware of how many more people locally are in need, turning to food banks for vital support to help them put a decent, hot meal on the table.

“Only a couple of weeks ago one of our customers got in touch to ask if she could pay forward a couple of suppers for the next young family that came in to order. That really warmed our hearts, and it was a timely reminder that there are many families who would appreciate a similar gesture.

“We’re really pleased to have partnered with a vital local charity on this. Aberdeenshire North Foodbank work incredibly hard to make sure no one goes without, and we certainly hope these additional suppers will be enjoyed too.”