A Dunfermline woman has started fundraising to ensure that a community food group can keep operating during a tough time.

Food Shack Fife was founded in June 2023 with the aim of helping those in need during the cost-of-living crisis.

Volunteer Anne Mckell said: “We are a group of people who have previously worked for other organisations or helped others just because we feel it’s the right thing to do.

"We do not discriminate when it comes to helping others. We have service users who work or don’t work, carers, and old age pensioners.

“We provide emergency food deliveries and also host Pop Up events. Our Pop Ups are for anyone and everyone, we take along surplus goods from food, clothing, bedding, hygiene products and much more. These are available to the public for free or a small donation towards our volunteers fuel costs.

“We also provide Christmas Dinners delivered on the day) hampers and gifts for children who would otherwise miss out.”

But the group recently ran into difficulties around transportation.

Mrs Mckell said: "At the moment we work from a very small budget and many of the volunteers cover costs of fuel and the upkeep of their vehicles themselves. This is something we need to tackle."

The group notified followers on social media that the van is on its last legs and that it would be difficult to continue activities.

Dunfermline resident Marc J McPherson came across the post and decided to help by starting an online Crowdfunder, which has since raised 600 pounds.

He said: “I had a look into their page and some of the things they’ve been involved in, and it’s a very local and genuine cause they’re fighting for. Obviously vulnerable folk in need is dreadful year-round, but there’s something particularly gut wrenching about the thought of our elderly community members, young families, those truly with a difficult situation struggling to put a decent meal on the table at Christmas time.

“It really makes you think of anyone that might be connected to you who might be in that situation!

“From their social media, I saw a lot of the community willing to support, but maybe not wanting the organisational responsibility, or knowing where to begin with setting up an online fundraiser. I suppose it was just luck that I saw their plight and had the time to set it up.

“The more we can share the story around, hopefully it inspires others to start their own community endeavours so even more folk can access the support they're currently lacking.”