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Ten Scottish churches join forces to fight poverty

Christians urge to take action against “shockingly low incomes” that are leaving people in Forth Valley hungry, without the basics and fearing debt collectors.

Based on Christians Against Poverty’s latest YouGov poll, 802,000 people – almost a fifth of Scotland’s population – do not have enough income to cover basic essentials, such as food, heating and hygiene. 

Jay Brownlee, the Forth Valley Community Link Coordinator, stated: “Poverty in our communities is getting worse and one of the biggest factors is that many people are living on shockingly low incomes that don’t stretch far enough to cover their basic essentials. This problem is often hidden behind closed doors. We are visiting individuals and families in our community who have empty fridges and are going hungry, living without the basics, and keeping their curtains closed out of fear of debt collectors. Local churches and charities are standing in the gap offering vital support to those facing these desperate situations. It’s vital we raise awareness of the free, face to face support available to everyone who is struggling ahead of this winter so they know there is help available and there’s always hope. On Challenge Poverty Week Scotland, we’re calling for more targeted support for people struggling to afford their basic needs and more awareness of the free help available. At Stirling Baptist Church, we are working in partnership with the charity Christians Against Poverty to offer free, face to face debt advice in Forth Valley.”

The churches partnered up with Christians Against Poverty and participated in Challenge Poverty Week between the 7th and 13th of October. They were offering face to face advice and help to get out of debt, regain financial stability and fight poverty. 

Source: https://premierchristian.news/

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