TWO Helensburgh community food groups have benefitted from fresh funding.

Helensburgh Foodbank and Jean’s Bothy Helensburgh were both given £4,750.

Groups across Argyll and Bute have benefitted from a share of £57,453 after councillors agreed to provide them with unspent monies from the Scottish Government’s LACER Fund.

The funding came after Miconex, the firm that manages the Scotland Loves Local Scheme, refunded Argyll and Bute Council for unspent gift cards.

These cards were initially given to households receiving a council tax reduction during the pandemic but were not activated.

The remaining funds were then distributed to various community food groups across the region after a decision by a group of councillors.

This group included the council leader, depute leader, and the leader of the largest opposition group.

The other organisations that received the funds are: Islay Foodbank with an additional £473 for Jura Foodbank, Hope Kitchen Oban, Inveraray Food Share, Bute Oasis, Hub Grub Hub Dunoon, Tarbert Soup Group, Kintyre Foodbank, Tiree Foodbank, Moving On Mid Argyll, and Mull and Iona Community Trust Pantry.

Each of these organisations received a core award of £4,750.

Council Leader Jim Lynch said: "Community Food Groups play a pivotal role in our society and this funding will help them to continue to provide essential supplies to those who require it.

"Increased living costs are affecting everyone, and many residents are struggling. Help and support is available, though.

"The council website has dedicated money advice pages with lots of resources and useful information, including how to save on your energy bills, tips on how to feed your family for less, as well as a handy budget calculator."

Visit argyll-bute.gov.uk/council-tax-and-benefits/money-advice to find out more.