CARING residents have boxed clever to make sure older people don’t miss out on vital shopping supplies.

The Food Train charity staged a nationwide drive throughout October that encouraged people to pledge £10 to sponsor one of the boxes its volunteers use to carry groceries to those who would otherwise struggle with their shopping.

And it has now been revealed that the Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire branch received more donations than any other in Scotland.

Around 150 crates were sponsored in the local area during the BOXtober initiative.

These were then delivered to older people across Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire who rely on Food Train for essential shopping items, as well as some socially-distanced personal contact.

Emma Black, Food Train’s national fundraising and marketing manager, said: “Thank you to everyone in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire who has supported BOXtober.

“Asking someone to sponsor a box may not seem too conventional but the impact it can have is remarkable.

“These boxes carry shopping supplies which mean the older people who are receiving them can eat well and live well in their own homes.

“This year, more than ever, our work is needed and it’s clear from the great reaction we’ve had that people recognise this and appreciate all that our tremendous volunteers and staff do.”

Anyone who sponsored a box will have their name printed on the label over the next year to acknowledge their support.

Across Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire, Food Train’s home shopping service is now delivering supplies to 270 customers.

That is compared to 160 at this time last year.

Nationally, demand at the peak of the coronavirus lockdown was 70% higher than in 2019, as a number of older people were shielding in their homes.

Food Train runs its Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire operation from a base in the Seedhill area of Paisley.

Anyone who is interested in volunteering with the charity is asked to call 0141 887 2557 to find out more.