Aberdeen Cyrenians has launched its annual Harvest Appeal,
asking communities to come together to help those facing hardship, hunger, or
homelessness this winter. With demand for the charity’s services increasing by
600% in 2022 from the previous year, support has never been more pressing to
ensure the most vulnerable people in Aberdeen’s communities are cared for.
Running until November 21, community groups, schools,
businesses, and the public are being encouraged to host collection points where
food, toiletries and other essentials can be donated and then shared with
families and individuals turning to the charity for help.
Donna Hutchison, Head of Corporate and Business Services at
Aberdeen Cyrenians, said: “We are pleased to launch our annual Harvest campaign
which is always a celebration of community giving and sharing. Last year,
communities created 82 collections across Aberdeen City and Shire, donating
over 8,000 meals for people in need.
“The cost-of-living crisis and escalating food and energy
costs continue to place significant burden on people, which means more people
are turning to us desperate for support. Many have never needed this help
before and don’t know where to turn.
“We are seeing devastating numbers of people facing food
insecurity. Our stock has been depleting for a long time with demand being so
high and as the colder months loom, many people will be worried about how they
will feed their family and heat their homes. Sadly, many won’t be able to do
either.
“We are asking our compassionate and dedicated people in our
community to help us meet the ongoing demand. More and more people are spiralling
into poverty, and lack of food has a knock-on effect on people’s mental and
physical wellbeing. It's a heart-breaking reality that a significant number of
people in our community are dealing with profound isolation, bitter cold and
gnawing hunger.
“The recent Challenge Poverty Week has highlighted the
ongoing crisis of poverty across the country. This is a vitally important
appeal for Aberdeen’s communities, and every year it becomes even more
critical. So, we’re asking directly, please help where you can.”
There are different ways to get involved in the Harvest
Appeal, either as an individual, business or community group. These
include creating a donation point, gifting items directly to the charity,
spreading the word, or volunteering to help sort and distribute donations at
Aberdeen Cyrenians’ warehouse, or as a driver. There are resources available on
the Aberdeen Cyrenians website for more information on how to participate.
Find out how you can make a positive difference this autumn -
visit weareac.org/harvest