When I was appointed Director of the East Lothian Foodbank at the end of January, we certainly did not foresee the current situation, which has at the very least, been a unique start to my tenure here. This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone but amidst this arduous period I have never encountered such an overwhelming amount of human kindness and goodwill. I am East Lothian born and bred and could not be prouder to say that at this time.
I would like to start by saying thank you to my wonderful colleagues Lucy and Paul who have not only worked incredibly hard and been such a support to me but have also sacrificed time with their family to dedicate to the Foodbank. To our Board of Trustees who work far harder than any Board I’ve ever known. For our invaluable volunteers I would like to borrow a quote from the writer Sherry Anderson, “Volunteers are not paid, not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless”. You are all the epitome of what it means to be selfless, caring and hardworking and we appreciate you so much. To the volunteers who have had to remain home during this crisis, we miss you and look forward to having you back with us.
We simply couldn’t do what we do without the support of the community. From members of the public raiding their cupboards, rallying their neighbours to donate and sacrificing their toilet rolls for those in need, to incredibly generous donations from our community partners. There are too many organisations to list individually but to all the churches, rotaries, supermarkets, local businesses, groups, clubs and other charities, you have no idea how grateful we are. Every single packet, tin and penny goes to supporting those in need. We are continuing to meet the growing need for our service at this difficult time and that is because of you.
I wish you all a Happy Easter and hope you are able to celebrate and enjoy this time in whatever small way you can manage. Please know that we are surrounded by wonderful compassionate people and that we will come out of this crisis stronger and more together.
Take care and stay safe,
Candace Higgins
Foodbank Director