A HELENSBURGH gran has taken on the top post at the town's food bank as demand continues to rise for a helping hand.
Celia Scanlan praised the "spirit" that she finds at Helensburgh and Lomond Foodbank, connecting generous residents with those who are struggling to make ends meet.
She took over the reins from Mary McGinley at the recent AGM after Mary stepped down following nine years leading the organisation.
Last month we reported how the food bank said the number of children in the area needing helped by 80 per cent in a year.
"I think there's a lovely spirit," Celia told the Advertiser from the food bank's Community Hub base.
"It's become a much less threatening place - it's not just queuing up. These are our friends.
"If you live in a town like Helensburgh, I think it's important there's not a divide between those able to buy food and those who struggle.
"There are bags made up and stuff on the counter.
"I remember someone saying their grandchildren were visiting, and we tried to find stuff they would like. We give people pet food for their cats and dogs.
"We are striving to treat people in a just way, treating them with dignity."
She added: "I have never learned to sit on my hands. I wanted to get back involved in doing things."
Mary, who won't be walking away entirely, said she had decided it was time to pass the baton at a service that still has a strong committee and great support from the community.
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She said: "I will still be working as a volunteer at the food bank and recognise the need within our area for there to be a food bank to help those experiencing food insecurity.
"We have such great support from the community and a great group of volunteers.
"Together we plan to continue to provide help to those in need. So, the work continues with the help of all involved."
As well as Celia as chair, Susan Davidson remains vice chair, with Emmy Deveney as secretary and Kati Byrne as treasurer.
Eilidh Steele, Alison Elias and Jonathan Meuli have also joined as new committee members.
The need at the food bank continues to increase week-on-week and they are most in need of tins of fruit, pasta sauce and blue and green long-life milk.
The drop-in service for the food bank is Monday mornings from 10am to 12noon and Thursdays from 3pm to 7pm at the Community Hub in East Princes Street.
They are also at the Howie Pavilion in Rosneath on Wednesdays from 1pm to 3pm.
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