Food Train is transforming former council offices on English Street into its first purpose-created headquarters after a quarter of a century of saving every penny possible to achieve its dream.
At its heart will be a community hub for older people – a welcoming place where they can meet, eat and chat, enhancing the organisation’s mission to improve the lives of those aged 65 over through good food and great company.
With the building on track for a summer opening, the Dumfries-founded charity is mounting a push to raise the £15,000 needed to fit-out its home-from-home lounge area.
Chief executive Michelle Carruthers said: “It’s thanks to the generosity of the people of Dumfries and Galloway over almost 27 years that we’ve finally managed to secure our first home of our own.
“From day one, our founders wanted somewhere in the town that older people could call their own – a place where they could get information and support, but also call in for a cuppa and a chat.
“Now we finally have that place, we hope that the kindness which has brought us this far will help complete our vision by making our community hub a great place for older people to gather. This will be somewhere they look forward to visiting, making their days better.
“If you can, we would encourage you to become a Food Train Hero, helping us put the finishing touches to what is going to be a great asset for the region’s older people.”
Specialist furniture suitable and comfortable for people with mobility problems is among the items which will be bought using the money.
People across the region are being encouraged to do what they can by organising collections, events or giving a donation – and a group of Food Train volunteers are also planning a sponsored hike up Criffel on April 1.
Meanwhile, the conversion of the building – led by Annan-based solutions firm Eco Group – is progressing well.
Michelle said: “The team from Eco are doing a fantastic job on transforming the building. We’re so excited about what’s taking shape.”
n To make a donation to the fundraising #FoodTrainHero fundraising appeal, go to www.justgiving.com/campaign/FoodTrainHero. If you would like to organise a fundraising event, please call Melissa on 01387 270800.
