Donation baskets have had to be moved or removed from some Edinburgh supermarkets after previously donated items were taken
Foodbank donation points have had to be removed from some supermarkets after being raided by panic buyers.
Edinburgh Food Project has announced that donation baskets have had to be moved closer to staff at some shops in the city after items previously given to the charity were taken.
The project runs seven emergency food outlets as part of the Trussell Trust.
A statement from the project said: “You may have noticed that our donation baskets have either been moved or removed in some supermarkets.
“Unfortunately this is due to items being taken from our baskets by shoppers. They are now in a place more visible to supermarket staff to be monitored.
“While we appreciate the current situation is very serious and understand the worry and uncertainty, we ask that you please consider those in need of donations.
“Thank you to everyone who has offered their ongoing support.”
Foodbanks across the country have reported a reduction in items being donated since the coronavirus outbreak began. To donate to the Edinburgh Food Project, or to find out where you can hand in items, visit the charity’s website.
The news comes as a plea was made for residents of Edinburgh to help the city’s most vulnerable.
City of Edinburgh Council leaders have called on residents to follow national guidance on combating the Coronavirus while supporting and helping one another. New measures to protect the city’s most vulnerable and ensure the authority continues to provide core services were announced last night.
Emergency funding of £2 million to support Edinburgh's response to the pandemic has been pledged by the council.
Council leader Adam McVey said: “There are many ways you can help and our advice right now is act locally. Phone your neighbours, offer to collect a prescription, take their bins out or pick up some shopping. Small but meaningful gestures can help us pull together as a city as we get through this by looking out for one another.”
