New shed is home to a food sharing community initiative in North Kessock; Kessock Kindness initiative a response to Covid-19 challenges and latest in a series of larders across Ross-shire
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A permanent home has been found for a food sharing enterprise on the Black Isle.
The Residents Association of North Kessock (RANK) – who set up Kessock Kindness as a response to the coronovirus pandemic – has taken ownership of a purpose-built shed to continue getting food to those who can use it.
Anne Thomas, larder co-ordinator, said: "North Kessock Larder is a community sharing shed for everyone in the area.
"It cuts down on food waste by sharing food people are not going to use, which is better for the planet. It also helps people make ends meet.
"We know the pandemic has stretched a lot of people's finances and this is a practical way of helping with no need to prove need.
"We are very grateful for funding for initial food stocks and regular food supplies from local businesses and donations of tinned and dried goods and apples from locals."
The shed is located opposite the school entrance behind the church and also next to the surgery, so in a good central location for the village.
She continued: "We also have a good supply of basics including toilet rolls for those requiring them.
"Anyone can give and anyone can take and people are also picking up things for someone else who they know who would benefit.
"Unfortunately we cannot take home baking due to food regulations. We also cannot take goods which need a fridge at present but we will soon install one which has been kindly donated".
This project was inspired by the Muir of Ord Community Fridge (MOO food) and other larders and sharing sheds have also opened in Munlochy, Fortrose and Culbokie over the last few months.
A team of seven local volunteers is looking after the larder one day a week each.
Ms Thomas said RANK was "very grateful" to Knockbain Free Church for providing the site and the temporary shed which enabled it to start earlier.
The church's Rev. Farquhar Renwick said: "Knockbain Free Church are glad to be able to partner with Kessock Kindness and the RANK board to have the community larder at the church here in North Kessock. Hopefully, an electrical supply to run the fridge will be installed soon. We hope it will help many people at such a difficult time."
The only stipulation for using the shed is that people use the hand sanitiser outside before use, and all new food donations are placed in a plastic box inside the shed.
Funding for the food supplies was distributed by the Black Isle Partnership via Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) from the Scottish Government Supporting Communities Fund made available in response to Covid-19.
To find out more, and to offer help phone 01463 898128 or email board@residentsnorthkessock.com.
