Foodbank volunteer Graeme Scott led a tour of the premises, outlining supply and demand, volunteer hours and roles, trends and future plans. The foodbank has different packages for users, including single people, couples, or families with young children. Each is tailored to suit the needs of the recipients and donations can be handed in at a number of supermarkets and other collection points around Kirkcaldy.

He said: “Donations here mean we can cater for over 1,000 foodbank users every month. We’ve been open for 12 years now, and we’re as busy as ever. Anyone needing help or support can be referred to us by the likes of social workers or housing officers, but they can also just come here directly.

“Often, people will be reluctant to ask for help for a variety of reasons, so we do see cases where things have been left to reach a crisis point, but we are here to step in and give support. Poverty isn’t confined to obvious stereotypes and people can find themselves in need due to relationship breakdowns, bereavement, job loss or just a change of circumstance.

“It doesn’t discriminate so our work here is more vital than ever.”

The foodbank is just one of many organisations to benefit from Kingdom’s Community Initiatives Fund this year. The scheme is part of Kingdom’s commitment to enhancing quality of life, protecting the environment, and funding and supporting events and organisations that promote community connections.

Over the past 12 months, the fund has contributed to the Levenmouth Foodbank memorial garden to create a calm space to connect and reflect during Community Cafe opening times. The scheme also supported the Forth Road Bridge 10k, as well as the Fife Charities Band Association’s Awards Night. You can apply by filling in an online form.

Tom Barclay added: “It’s sobering to see the extent of the operation here in Kirkcaldy and the hard work put in by all the volunteers. It’s been a valuable visit to talk about ways we can join up our thinking and work together to continue to support wraparound services and give advice to Kingdom customers. Kingdom is delighted to have been able to donate to the foodbank, and we’re grateful to the dedication of the volunteers who do such great work in our communities.”