Former pupil, Linda (Miller) Williams, creates hardship fund to help those in need during COVID-19 crisis
A local couple who are convenience store owners in Edinburgh have been widely praised after creating a local hardship fund for those struggling in the area during the coronavirus pandemic.
The fund, created by Oxgangs couple Dennis and Linda Williams, was launched with a goal of raising £300. However within just 40 minutes of going live, the target was hit. Since then almost £5000 has been donated, with an additional £1000 being added by the couple themselves. Local residents have overwhelmed the couple, who own the Premier Broadway Convenience Store, with praise and gratitude over the fund. The proceeds have been put towards providing those who need it with food, electricity and other essential items. Linda told leading industry publication ‘Convenience Store’: “I’m just overwhelmed by people’s kindness and care for each other at this incredibly difficult time,” “Every time I look at the fund it brings a tear to my eye, we’ve had loads of donations online and I’ve had people coming up to me in the street and in the store with £20 notes and envelopes of cash, it’s just incredible.”
The fund has already been helping struggling individuals and families in Edinburgh. The first recipient was unable to get food over the weekend whilst foodbanks were shut, but was given supplies and electric money through by Dennis and Linda. “That person was exactly the kind of person that the fund was set up to help,” Linda said. “Unfortunately, there are lots of people like that who are falling through cracks in the system at the moment. “There are benefits and there is help out there but these things take time to set up and people need help now, so that’s what we are doing.” The couple also confirmed that the fund “is not charity”, and that those in need can apply in confidence. The Oxgangs store has seen multiple messages of praise on their Facebook page, with one customer commenting: “You guys are amazing! Yet again Linda and Dennis have done something fantastic for our community. Thank you so much for everything that you do.”