Cllr Callum Laidlaw (Portobello/ Craigmillar) has continued to support the Venchie Project which supports vulnerable young people in Craigmillar through PANDAS (referred breakfast club), after school clubs, holiday clubs, and parent/toddler clubs. During the pandemic it has expanded its role with the opening of a community pantry which offers a unique, low cost way to access a variety of foods, including chilled and fresh produce, and ambient cupboard staples. The pantry is open on Thursdays between 11am and 12pm.
Callum said, “despite successful lobbying of the council to continue some funding the vital services it provides, the Venchie has seen the funding it receives substantially decrease while the demand for the services it provides have increased. It is a registered charity, so if you would like to make a donation please do and I will continue to make the case for the council to provide additional support.”