A troop of Blantyre organisations unite this Christmas to provide a
three course meal for families struggling financially.
Blantyre Soccer Academy have teamed up with Priestfield Boxing Club,
Jinxy’s Bakers, The Blantyre Resident’s Group, Strachan’s Butchers
and others to deliver this festive gesture.
The club’s vice chairperson said: “We decided to take the stress and
worry away from Christmas day and provide a three course meal to
anyone who needs it.”
The menu includes homemade soup, turkey and trimmings and Christmas
pudding.
The group hopes to extend their plans through to New Years Eve with
beef stew and potatoes on offer and even packed lunches for the
period in between.
Jinxy’s Bakers will be providing filled rolls and cakes during
December as part of the scheme.
Peter Inglis, who runs the Main Street bakery with his mum and dad,
said: “This past year has proved that when Blantyre needs to help
their own, then we all try our best to help out.”
The man, who has lived in the town all of his life, praised the hard
work of everyone involved and thinks it’s “always good to give
something back”.
Strachan’s Butchers will not only be providing meat for the dinner,
they will be taking on the mammoth task of cooking 100 portions in
time for Christmas Eve.
Nicola Strachan, who owns the Glasgow Road favourite with her husband
Steven, said: “ The Blantyre community have shown our business
unwavering support over the last two and a half years and we’re
always keen to pay them back.”
Blantyre Soccer Academy have a winning scorecard when it comes to
community involvement – with fellow footballer Marcus Rashford and
his recent campaign for free school meals being an inspiration for
their campaign.
During the height of the pandemic the team provided vital educational
resources for less fortunate families including stationary, books and
activity packs.
As well as this, they provided clothing at a time when money is
“tight” and “kids don’t stop growing”.
Food bank charity The Trussell Trust reported 237,225 emergency food
parcels were distributed in Scotland last year, with the predominant
reason being low income and benefit delays.
Councillor Josh Wilson, who welcomes the initiative, said: “ I welcome
the community pulling together to support those who would’ve
otherwise struggled.
“I’m glad organisations like the Blantyre Soccer Academy are doing
everything they can to support those in need.”
To find out more visit facebook.com/BlantyreSoccerAcademy
