Alness pupils bag a boost from their peers during coronavirus crisis
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BIG-HEARTED members of an Easter Ross youth group have reached out to their peers to offer support during lockdown.
Members of The Place Youth Club girls group in Alness have kept busy during the lockdown during which schools across the county have been closed.
They decided to reach out to local pupils at Alness Academy with a message of support and also advice on how to keep well during the lockdown.
Their goody bag initiative was inspired by the challenges faced by teenagers stuck in and not able to see their friends.
The girls, Iona Murphy, Luci Haig and Sophie Hynd, packed over 350 bags for their fellow pupils.
After much discussion on the contents, it was decided to keep it simple and focus on a self-help sheet along with some little treats.
Knowing how mental health is a real concern for young and old alike, The Place Committee and staff wanted to let youngsters know they were there for them 24/7 and provide a number of other important contact numbers for help and advice.
In addition to the letter, the bags also contain face packs, deodorant, face wipes, soap, chocolate, crisps and a comb.
Distribution had to be carefully thought through and, after some concerns, the youth workers set about doing gate drop-offs.
The Place has been asking for all those Academy-aged young people who want bags to get in touch so they can arrange for them to be delivered.
With over 200 bags already distributed and more going out, anyone who would like a bag is asked to contact The Place Facebook page or e mail.
The gesture was appreciated by many on Facebook
Jacquie Steel said: "Gosh, what a lovely project! I'm so pleased you're doing this safely! What a lovely act of kindness for Alness young people!" Gordon Robertson wrote: "These girls are fantastic." Another mum wrote: "Thank you very much for the goody bag received by my son today. He was delighted that a delivery to the house was for him."
