READERS of the Alloa Advertiser are being asked to help support a drive to provide those most in need across the Wee County with essential items.

Later this month, on Wednesday, December 15, we will be including a bag with the Advertiser for readers to fill with goods and drop off at The Gate in Alloa.

Non-perishable food items including cereal, tinned soup, pasta, rice, lentils, tea and coffee, biscuits and UHT milk are needed.

Toiletries required include deodorant, toilet paper, shower and shaving gel, shampoo, soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Also needed are household items such as laundry detergent, laundry powder and washing up liquid.

Feminine products such as sanitary towels and tampons are required, as are baby products like nappies, baby wipes and baby food.

Adrienne Hilton, foodbank coordinator at The Gate, said: “Donations collected from this campaign will allow for the love to be put back into Christmas for our families.

“These donations will take the stress away for over the festive period and into the New Year.

"We are extremely grateful. Thank you.”

In December, The Gate will celebrate 10 years of making a positive impact on Clackmannanshire communities and donations are needed now just as much as they were back then.

Jilly Guild, chief officer at The Gate, added: “This appeal could not have come at a better time for us – more and more people are having to rely on our services and knowing that the community are willing to support us means so much.

“The county never ceases to amaze us with its generosity, thank you.”

Sponsoring the Advertiser appeal this year is Sterling Mills, Tillicoultry’s KeyStore, Allanwater Homes and Carpet Gallery.

A Carpet Gallery spokesperson said: “Carpet Gallery has been part of the community in Clackmannanshire for over four decades.

“We are all existing in a very difficult environment at present and we want to do what we can to help make a difference wherever possible.”

That sentiment was echoed by Sterling Mills, who said they were proud to be part of such a caring community.

A Sterling Mills spokesperson said: “We are pleased to sponsor this great initiative, supporting families in some of the hardest times.

“The impact of Covid is being felt by more and more people and they are turning to resources like The Gate for support and we are happy to help in any way we can.

“The local community always rally round any local cause and we know this one will offer help to so many living locally.

“We are so proud to be part of such a caring community and hope that shedding a light on a The Gate will allow continued to support as the need for it increases.”

Allanwater Homes, who have been building homes and supporting local clubs in Alloa for more than five years, were equally as willing to support the drive.

Cheryl McGeever, sales manager, added: “The last 18 months have been particularly challenging for all of us and some families have suffered more than others so being able to give back is something we feel very strongly about.

“We take our community responsibilities very seriously and if we can help others going through some difficult times, we are always very keen to be involved.

“As a family-owned business based in Stirlingshire we pride ourselves in being family focused with everything we do.”

Donation bags will be included with the Wednesday, December 15 edition of the Advertiser.

Visit alloaadvertiser.com/foodbank-appeal for more information.