The founder of a Renton food pantry has been left delighted after her first community event was a huge success.
We previously told how Julie Tobaben set up a food pantry from her home to help those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
With less than two weeks of preparation, the inspiring woman held her first fun day in aid of Tontine Food Pantry earlier this month.
She told the Reporter: "We were sitting at the football club and I suggested 'wouldn't it be a good idea to hold a community event'.
"I had a look at my rota and chose the date. We had only two weeks to prepare the whole thing which looking back is so crazy. I honestly didn't think I would be able to pull it off in time.
"In that time I managed to organise an ice cream van, a painter and a raffle. I even went to my work to ask for a donation thinking they would donate a small stuffed teddy, but was completely shocked when they gifted an overnight stay which made a huge difference."
The event saw a whole host of activities from games, glitter tattoos, face painting and even a raffle where one of the top prizes was a stay at Cameron Lodges.
The 67-year-old added: "What started as a small thing for people who hadn't got much money or are struggling turned into this huge event. Just before the event somebody came in and told me that we needed to get the doors open as soon as possible because people were queueing down the road to get in.
"When everybody left I just cried because I was overwhelmed that people took time of out their day to come and support this cause. I couldn't believe the amount of people who helped out and volunteered.
"It is always amazing to see a community working together to bring an event to life and supporting one another. At the end of the day, we are all affected one way or another by this cost-of-living crisis.
"I think everybody had a great time because we offered plenty of snacks for the children, tea and coffee and so much cake. I am just happy everyone had a great time."
On top of running the pantry, every Thursday Julie volunteers her time at Renton Craigendro football club to help with its warm hub and provide food and household supplies from the donations she receives.
Julie wanted to give her special thank you after raising £500 from the fun day which she says will fund the pantry for weeks.
She continued: "I cannot thank the football club enough. They give us the venue for free and without their help, none of this would be happening. There are no two ways about it they have phenomenal.
"Also I can't thank everybody enough from the businesses, the individual people, and my incredible team Elaine, Joanna and Mandy as I would not be able to pull this off without any of them. Hopefully here to the next one."
For more information about Tontine Food Pantry visit their Facebook page.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here