Helensburgh & Lomond Foodbank Calls for Community Support Amid Rising Demand
The Helensburgh & Lomond Foodbank is calling on the local community to step forward with additional support as it faces a growing demand for its services.
Operating for more than a decade, the Foodbank is run entirely by a team of over fifty dedicated volunteers, with no paid staff. Built on the principle of “for the community by the community,” it provides essential, practical assistance to individuals and families across the Helensburgh and Lomond area. The service is open to anyone in need—no referral or appointment is required—ensuring that those struggling to access food can receive help quickly and without barriers.
In recent months, the Foodbank has seen a 10% increase in the number of people seeking support compared to the same period last year. At the same time, both food and financial donations have declined, placing added strain on resources. While the organisation is currently able to meet demand, continued increases may force a reduction in the number of items distributed to each person.
To maintain its service, the Foodbank not only relies on donations but also purchases essential items to fill gaps in supply. Funding is raised through community grants, which help cover both stock costs and operational expenses, including the hire of The Hub.
The Foodbank is in need of non-perishable food items within their use-by date. Items in high demand include long-life milk, tinned vegetables and fruit, tinned meat and fish, baked beans, rice, pasta, curry and pasta sauces, small bottles of vegetable oil, as well as tea and coffee.
Residents are encouraged to support the Foodbank during their spring clean by donating any unopened, in-date food items to help replenish shelves.
Susan Davidson, Chair of the Foodbank, emphasised the importance of both community support and accessibility:
“We want people to know that we are here for them. If you are short of food or money to buy food, please don’t hesitate to visit us. We offer a friendly, welcoming, and confidential service, and can also provide information to help people access further support if needed. The support of the community is outstanding, and we’d like to take this opportunity to give them our heartfelt thanks—what we do would not be possible without their generosity.”
Opening Times and Locations
The Foodbank welcomes both clients and donations at the following locations:
Helensburgh Community Hub
116 East Princes Street, Helensburgh, G84 7DQ
- Mondays: 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Thursdays: 3:00pm – 7:00pm
St Modan’s Church Hall
Rosneath, G84 0RF
- Wednesdays: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
As demand continues to rise, the Helensburgh & Lomond Foodbank remains committed to supporting those in need—but its ability to do so depends on the continued generosity of the local community.
