LAST month, we launched our East Lothian Courier Foodbank Appeal, and we’re asking our generous readers to dig deep and help out the county’s vital foodbanks and food initiatives in any way they can.

Now, we’re taking a closer look at a few of the organisations and sponsors involved with our appeal ahead of the release of tomorrow's paper (Thursday), when we’ll be including a donation bag in our paper which readers can fill with goods for he various groups.

There will be lots of convenient locations for you to drop off our bag – we’ll carry a full list in tomorrow’s issue.

We are being supported by our generous sponsors – AC’s Taxis, Minibuses & Coaches; Belmont Group; EDF; and Forth Blinds.

So please, if you can, take part in our appeal and help improve the lives of people in dire need – any donation you can make, no matter how small, will be hugely appreciated.

The Pennypit Trust

East Lothian Courier: Pennypit Trust volunteers and members connected communities team have been collecting donations of food, presents and essentials to deliver across East Lothian this festive season

The Pennypit Trust, based in Prestonpans, aims to improve health and wellbeing through sport, community development, nutrition, family engagement and volunteer development.

The charity – one of the food initiatives taking part in the Courier’s Foodbank Appeal – has a key focus on tackling poverty and reducing inequalities.

Lessons in healthy cooking are also offered, as well as a community pantry for those in need.

The Pennypit Trust runs thanks to a hard-working team of staff and volunteers, and is constantly kept busy.

Ruth Davie, fundamental foods manager at the Pennypit Trust, said: “Demand for our help is not slowing and we are consistently needed to support people.

“We have seen demand rise a lot over the last few years and people are really struggling.

“We have a very dedicated team who work hard on the many initiatives carried out but we are constantly in need of donations and support from the public.

“Any community donations can go a long way to helping those who need us.

“It has been difficult over the last year and we have seen probably about a 60 per cent rise in demand for our support.

“We have also seen about a 15 to 20 per cent rise in the number of older people in need.

“Any donations are a big help, from food to toiletries. It’s not been easy and I don’t think it will get easier.

“Donations have slowed a little due to everyone feeling the pinch, but any help is greatly appreciated.”

Visit pennypittrust.com for more information.