Finderne Coronavirus Support campaign volunteers are offering assistance
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A COMMUNITY group is running a coronavirus lockdown support network for people living in the area of Altyre, Blairs, Blervie, Braemoray, Brodieshill, Burgie, Cathay, Dunphail, Easter Lawrenceton, Edinkillie, Glenerney, Logie, Rafford and Relugas.
Finderne Development Trust (FDT) is working with 40 local volunteers to co-ordinate the Finderne Coronavirus Support campaign offering assistance a friendly phone call to shopping.
FDT development manager Pery Zakeri confirmed that after volunteers offered to help, the trust offered to use its resources to put the network together.
She said: "We've had quite a few calls from vunerable and isolated people who need vital shopping done or prescriptions picked up.
"The volunteers have been fantastic. They are going over and above to spread joy in the area and it's been beautiful to witness the community pulling together in such an upsetting time. The recipients of the support are clearly massively grateful."
FDT follow up the requests after volunteers have completed the tasks. They heard from one couple in their seventies who had asked for a food shop. After it was left outside their home they admitted to shedding a few tears when they noticed a bunch of tulips left on top by the volunteer.
Another couple who requested a collection of prescriptions said they were also pleased to find it with extra cookies and daffodils.
"I lost a call during one request for help due to a bad reception," said Ms Zakeri. "It was from a withheld number but I’d written down the address.
"Volunteer and FDT director, Jim Mckay, stepped in and got on his bike, completing his one session of daily exercise by cycling to the house. He finished the conversation with the requester through a window then cycled to Forres and back to get their prescription! for them."
Wellhill Farm worker offered to help, donating six 25kg bags of potatoes and 30 trays of eggs. FDT are putting up signs in Rafford and Edinkillie advertising where people in need can pick them up.
"Thank you to all of our volunteers," said Ms Zakeri. "They are the heroes of Finderne."
Call 07483 133 203 for more information about the Finderne Coronavirus Support campaign.
