Lammermuir Larder launched to help people in crisis

The Lammermuir Larder was unveiled this month in a bid to help those who find themselves in crisis or financial difficulties.

Now, members of the public have been urged to get behind the scheme and donate food so that stocks can be built up.

Lammermuir Larder, which will be headed up by a team of volunteers, operates through a referral system, either from a professional familiar with the individual/family, or from the individual/family themselves.

Referrals are kept strictly confidential.

Once the referral has been received, a ‘larder list’ will be sent out detailing products that are available.

Once the completed list has been returned, the larder box or bags will be delivered to the person’s door.

General donations can be made in the Co-op in Haddington, Rosehall Stores and Kevin Watt Butchers, as well as Animal Magic Pet Supplies and JS Main & Sons.

Lammermuir Larder has been launched

A spokesman for the Lammermuir Larder encouraged people to get involved.

She said: “This has come together quickly to react to a demand for this service.

“We could not do this without the support of the local traders and the community.

“We’d like to thank Haddington and District Community Council, Irvines Home Hardware and Mikes Bikes for their assistance in getting us started.

“As this is a new initiative, we need help from the community; they can do this by donating tinned food, etc, at the drop-off points, or by making a donation to the Larder.

“Any help would be gratefully appreciated.

“This initiative is the third strand to the food and clothing projects set up by the community council which are still running in Haddington.

“These projects have helped a large number of individuals in the area.”

The initiative was highlighted at last month’s meeting of Haddington’s community council.

Pat Lemmon, vice-chairwoman of the group, said that discussions had already taken place with the Lamp of Lothian Trust about the scheme being based in the town’s Bridge Centre.

She said: “We are going to speak to the Trussell Trust.

“Foodbanks exist because people need them – that’s the reality of what is happening everywhere. You better believe it is happening in Haddington as well.”

Members of the community council agreed at the meeting to make a £2,000 donation to the good cause.

Referral forms can be found online on the Haddington and District Community Council website or by emailing team@lammermuirlarder.co.uk

More information can also be obtained by calling 07483 911391.