A local food pantry is helping those in need by providing free meals and food from their 'mini Asda'.

Dalmuir Community Pantry and Drop-in Cafe has been aiding nearby residents for almost two years after becoming a food drop point during Covid-19.

The nearby organisation Old Kilpatrick Food Parcels, set up a distribution centre in Dalmuir Barclay Church during the pandemic.

After running the centre for some time co-ordinator Liz Stewart told the Post how the community knew something more was needed.

She said: "We opened up during Covid-19 as part of Old Kilpatrick Food Parcels as a distribution point. When they pulled back we decided to open it ourselves.

"I am a session clerk at the church and I believe you get a calling to do something and the time was right for us to do this, to reach out and serve the community the best we can.

"We see that some people who come here have nothing and we can give them a smile on their face and something to eat. We are there also if someone needs a private chat."

Starting with just seven volunteers the pantry is now celebrating two years of existence and service as they receive a new kitchen.

Offering those who drop in a free meal and hot drink, they can then walk down the corridor to visit the pantry that houses shelves with everyday items.

People can choose ten items for a mere £2.50 in the shop which members refer to as a 'mini-ASDA'.

The pantry has everyday items for a cheap priceThe pantry has everyday items for a cheap price (Image: Newsquest) Now up to 25 volunteers are on hand to provide support on food, bills and supportive talks.

With a quiet room away from the cafe, trained staff can help talk with those who need some extra help.

Barbara McIntyre, 72, uses the cafe every week and says it helps her a lot.

She said: "I need to come here for help and to do my shopping. If I buy my shopping and I need a couple more things I can just come here. 

"There is everything here, clothes, food and books. A mum can come in with kids and sometimes there are a lot of kids in here. It's nice for people to interact and chat and give their mum a break."

Another cafe-goer says the pantry helps her as she's struggling financially after the loss of her husband.

She said: "We are going back to the 1930s, my mama said it was bad then with the great depression and it's coming back."

The pantry and cafe will continue to make use of their new kitchen, cooking up food for anyone who drops by.