True to tradition, Dundee United is again hosting a foodbank collection this year in the run-up to Christmas. A time of plenty for most, the festive season often is a particularly difficult period for people in our community for whom foodbanks are a last resort.

As in previous years, the campaign is carried by the Club and its Community Trust as well as by Taught by Muhammad, Dundee Foodbank, ArabTRUST, ULT83 and some pubs in the vicinity of Tannadice.

While the collection centres around Tannadice on the day of its home fixture versus Ayr on 21 December, there are additional drop off opportunities available in the run-up to the game courtesy of the Snug and Balmore Bar. Both will accept donations on the Thursday and Friday before the game between 5pm and 11pm and on the Saturday from 11am.

Club captain Mark Reynolds, Calum Butcher and Cammy Smith visited the Trussel Trust foodbank warehouse on Dunsinane Avenue yesterday to drop off donations from the players. Mark said: Its a terrible indictment on our society that foodbanks should exist in the first place. At the same time, standing there surrounded by crates of donated items in the Dundee Foodbank, you could feel the warmth of the local community, and I know that our fans will give generously to this appeal.

Ken Linton, Manager of Dundee Foodbank, said: The foodbank has been exceptionally busy during 2019. Universal Credit continues to wreak havoc on individuals and families across the city, and in addition many have to decide between heating or eating especially after the clocks changed in October. It was great for the players to kick-start the appeal and to drop off their donations in person. We are extremely grateful to the Club for running this appeal ahead of Christmas."

Rizwan Rafik, Operations Manager at Taught by Muhammad, stated: "The stark reality is that 31% of children in Dundee are living in poverty. Every child should have the right to food, this is important for their health, education and wellbeing. A massive thanks to Dundee United and its supporters for their continuous help and support. Your contribution makes a massive difference to those children and families struggling within our city.

Susan Batten, ArabTRUST Chair said: "We are proud that ArabTRUST are once again supporting such a worthwhile initiative. Foodbanks offer a vital support for those in need, particularly at this time of year, so if anyone can make a contribution, it would be greatly appreciated to help those in need in our community.

Kay Sievewright, ULT83 Chair, added: We would urge supporters to also bring items not always associated with foodbanks, namely nappies, baby wipes, shampoos, toilet paper and sanitary products as these are equally badly needed.

Jamie Kirk, Chief Executive at the Dundee United Community Trust stated: Im really proud that we are able to continue working with the Football Club to support our local foodbanks. The generosity of the United support is always fantastic, especially at this time of year. Id once again encourage supporters to give what they can either at the match or via this years JustGiving campaign; everyone who contributes is making a real difference to local people."

Items to donate -

Breakfast Cereal / UHT Milk / Coffee / Tea / Sugar

Tinned meat, vegetables, fruit, soups, fish & puddings

Dried Pasta / Pasta Sauce

Biscuits / Treats for Kids

Toiletries - shampoo, soap and shower gel/sanitary products

Money - there will be donation buckets at the Tannadice food collection points and within the concourses on the day of the game.