Fife College lecturer becomes foodbank volunteer

From delivering classes to making soup
Lorraine volunteering at the Linton Lane Centre.Lorraine volunteering at the Linton Lane Centre.
Lorraine volunteering at the Linton Lane Centre.

A Fife College lecturer has been going above and beyond to help her community during the coronavirus pandemic.

Lorraine Wilkinson has been volunteering with Kirkcaldy Foodbank at the town’s Linton Lane Centre where she is the chairman of the board.

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She started making soup and baking scones at the weekend for clients and their families.

On an average day the centre supports up to 34 families with Lorraine and other volunteers lending a listening ear to those who are struggling mentally and physically during these challenging times.

On top of cooking, baking and lending a friendly ear, Lorraine has also been knitting rainbows which are being sold to raise funds.

Lorraine, a community lecturer delivering on the Step Up programme in Leven and Springboard course in Templehall Community Centre said: “With the lockdown, the centre had to close to all groups which has stopped all income for running costs and overheads and all staff were furloughed, except for the manager, Mandy Henderson.

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“However, we decided that the Foodbank was still an integral part of the community and even more necessary in these uncertain times.”

Lorraine, who is usually based at Fife College’s Glenrothes campus, added: “The stories of people who have been furloughed, lost their jobs or who are now struggling as they need to wait to apply for funding really do make you sad. It is amazing how upbeat everyone is and listening to their stories makes you feel really humble. I’m just happy to help in any way I can.”

Bryan McCabe-Bell, director of Faculty for Business, Enterprise and Tourism with Supported Programmes at Fife College, said: “Lorraine is one of a number of college colleagues who are volunteering in their communities to support those most in need just now. We are truly grateful to everyone involved in these efforts – they are a credit to themselves and the college.”

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