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EAST Renfrewshire Council is being handed hundreds of thousands of pounds to help families unable to access food as a result of the coronavirus outbreak.

A total of £348,000 will be made available to East Renfrewshire as part of a £30m investment from the Scottish Government Food Fund.

The extra cash will support those most in need, including families with children who are eligible for free school meals, older people, those with long-term health conditions and pregnant women.

Council chiefs will have flexibility to use the money in ways that best meet emerging local needs and circumstances, working with community groups and businesses to support home delivery, provide financial help and meet dietary requirements.

Communities Secretary Aileen Campbell said: “This pandemic is impacting on all our lives but, for some, it is more than a disruption, it is severely restricting their ability to access food for themselves and their families.

“It is vital that we work together to ensure the most vulnerable people in our communities receive the support they need.

“Local authorities are uniquely placed to respond swiftly, in partnership with community groups and organisations, to help those struggling.

“We know that free school meals are vital for families and an important way of ensuring their children receive the nutritious food they need. That is why it is so important that support continues while schools remain closed.

“This fund will help ensure the most vulnerable people in our society during this outbreak receive support.”

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