Ross-shire based MSPs Maree Todd and Kate Forbes praised Dingwall Community Fridge organisers for their 'incredible' response to the Covid-19 coronavirus crisis
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A NEW community fridge in Dingwall has been praised by two Ross-based MSPs, who have hailed the "incredible" response of the organisers to the coronavirus crisis.
The community fridge, located within a shed at the side of Dingwall Community Centre, opened its doors on Monday. The facility looks to remove the stigma around food insecurity, reduce food wastage and foster a sense of community through the act of sharing food.
Inside the hut is a large double door fridge and shelving for dried goods, cleaning materials and personal care items. The community fridge, which is free for everyone to use, is controlled by a special lock system which gives access to the shed every day between the hours of 8am and 8pm.
Operating under strict hygiene measures, the community group is asking service users to adhere to current public health guidance by observing physical distancing, wearing a face covering and using the sanitising station on arrival and departure. Users of the community fridge are also asked to thoroughly clean all food packaging prior to use.
Highlands & Islands MSP Maree Todd said: “The Dingwall community fridge is yet another incredible example of a community coming together in a time of national crisis to support one another.
“Covid-19 has inflicted financial hardship on many people throughout the Highlands but it is inclusive projects like this which go a long way in supporting our most vulnerable community members.
“By creating a service that is open to all, the community fridge will help eliminate the feeling of embarrassment that is often felt by those experiencing food insecurity.
“The organisers of the Dingwall community fridge are real assets to their community.”
Skye, Lochaber & Badenoch MSP Kate Forbes said: “I commend the community group for installing the new community fridge in Dingwall. This has worked very well in other communities, to minimise food waste and provide support to those who need it. Unlike a food bank, it is anonymous and anybody can pop by to pick up some food.
“It has been an exceptionally difficult period for so many people, and the impact of Covid has exacerbated the challenges facing so many families and individuals in Dingwall and the surrounding areas.
“I hope this will be another means of offering a helping hand.”
