The generosity of the West Lothian community has shone through once again. Over three days in November, West Lothian Foodbank had an army of volunteers in the Linlithgow and Bathgate Tesco stores collecting food and cash donations for the Foodbank. The goods collected will go to families in food crisis across West Lothian in emergency food parcels.
The instore collections are organised as part of a National partnership between Tesco and the Trussell Trust, a network of associated foodbanks across the country.
Almost 1900kgs of food was donated by store customers, which, according to Charlie Morris, Deputy Manager of West Lothian Foodbank, represents approximately over 4,500 meals. “The community spirit and generosity displayed by the residents of West Lothian is clearly visible. When so many families are struggling to put food on their tables, to see so many other families stepping up in support and contributing with donations is truly inspiring”.
In addition to the food collected, many shoppers made monetary donations and raised nearly £1700 which will enable the Foodbank to top up any specific food items they’re running low of, as well as keeping the lights on and vans refuelled.
West Lothian Foodbank runs a centre twice a week in 8 localities in West Lothian where food parcels and further support and advice are offered to clients local to the area. Clients are referred to the Foodbank by a number of agencies including the local council and Citizen’s Advice Bureau. A food parcel will provide an individual or a family with enough food for 3 meals a day for 3 to 5 days. In 2024/25, over 4000 food parcels were distributed across West Lothian, ensuring over 7000 people had enough to eat in an emergency.
Mr Morris said “On behalf of the thousands of West Lothian families that struggle to have enough food, thank you to everyone who donated in Tesco recently. Whether it was a tin of beans, a box of teabags or a bag full of toiletries, your support is so gratefully received. Every item will go to a person or family in crisis in West Lothian, ensuring our community is supporting our community.”
You can learn more about ways to donate food or money, or volunteering opportunities, at www.westlothian.foodbank.org.uk
