Kirkcaldy Foodbank reports another busy year at 2026 AGM

Kirkcaldy Foodbank held its 2026 AGM in Pathhead Parish Church on Wednesday, April 15.

Secretary Neill Mitchell welcomed an audience of about 35, including special guests Darren Forbes from the Shambolics, Lewis Stevenson of Raith Rovers, and Ann Oliver from Innes Johnston Solicitors.

Neill then introduced chair Norah Smith to give her 2025 report.

Norah thanked the volunteers, supporters and members present for their contribution to the work of the foodbank over the last 12 months.

She also thanked her predecessor, Angela Campbell, for her hard work during her time as chair.

Norah said 2025 had been another very busy year for the foodbank and highlighted some of the key statistics.

There had been an average of 1000 visits to the foodbank every month. On average, more than 650 adults and 240 children received food every month.

Over the year as a whole, 2133 adults and 971 children received food from the foodbank at least once.

Norah said 47% of the people who came to the foodbank only came once, 21% came twice, 12% came three times, 9% came four times and 8% came five or more times.

On average, 96 people per month attended the foodbank for the first time in at least a year.

"There are some people who manage to leave food insecurity behind, so that is good news," said Norah.

She stressed that the foodbank was about "more than just food" and the charity has been working hard to build partnerships with other agencies to provide support for people in areas such as welfare, finance and housing.

It was important to encourage people who use the foodbank to take advantage of the services available to help them out of poverty.

Norah also said she was delighted to announce the foodbank has received financial support from the Northwood Trust and Fife Council to appoint a co-ordinator who will help to support the work of the charity going forward.

Neill then introduced treasurer Jacqueline Armitage to present the accounts and give her financial report.

Jacqueline said that despite a challenging year, the foodbank remained financially stable and sustainable.

She reported a deficit of £27,345 - slightly lower than the deficit recorded last year. There had been a reduction of almost £40,000 in funding across all income streams, but Jacqueline said the board remained committed to prudent cost management and worked hard to monitor food prices and adjust purchasing accordingly.

About 97% of the foodbank's income is spent on food.

Neill then moved on to the election and re-election of trustees, which was approved unanimously.

He then handed over to trustee Ian Campbell, who led a conversation with special guests Darren Forbes, Lewis Stevenson and Ann Oliver about their support of the foodbank.

The Shambolics have staged numerous gigs over the years to raise money for the foodbank.

Darren said: "It's always good to do your bit for the community, and hopefully we can continue doing that."

Raith Rovers supporters organise regular collections of food, toiletries and money on behalf of the foodbank, and Lewis said: "The work that the foodbank does has been an eye-opener for me."

Innes Johnston Solicitors are also long-time supporters of the foodbank, and senior partner Ann praised the charity for its vital role in "providing a safety net to support the community".

She said it was important to ensure that people know that help is available, and to increase awareness of the ongoing need to raise funding.

After a vote of thanks by Norah, those present were able to enjoy refreshments in the church hall.

Pictured are, from left: Darren Forbes, Ann Oliver, Norah Smith and Lewis Stevenson.