During the COVID pandemic local orginisation Stirling Aid run by Zahir Haider and a team of volunteers has stepped up and responded by adapting their services to help local people and organisations. Here Zahir tells of some of the good work they have done.The good people of Stirling have always dug deep into their pockets to help any project for those in need. Since the first earthquake relief event in 2005, Central Scotland Islamic Centre has given the use of its community hall for essential work to be carried out for any charitable cause.A huge effort and selfless work comes from the ladies who study at the Islamic Centre, who volunteer, and give their total commitment to every project.With the help of local schools, churches and many businesses, Stirling Aid has developed into a trusted and reputable charity.Since the start of the Coronavirus pandemic, myself, the chair, and Trustees were determined to help those in need, especially key workers on the front line. This includes care home staff, delivery drivers, assisting other volunteering organisations too and vulnerable individuals who may not have access to basic essentials and to PPE. Our purchase network includes a connection to high grade NHS visors. Through these contacts, that includes 300 pharmacists, we were able to purchase from the private network, however many PPE resources have been donated.Stirling Aid is currently operating from:The Central Scotland Islamic Centre (next to Waitrose)From Monday- Saturday2:30pm – 4:30pmThis is where donations can be dropped off for distribution.Once a week the food is picked up by the Salvation Army and delivered to those in need.To date we have distributed PPE to 13 care homes in the Forth Valley area and beyond including over 500 visors and 3,000 face masks, gloves and sanitiser and equipment.1,200kg of food stuff has been delivered for distribution to the Salvation Army. We have also partnered with Sunrise Africa which has given invaluable support with their project Lead Mr Ifitikar AhmedWe have many people to thank for getting behind the cause, including those volunteers who give their time each day whatever the weather, roadside donations, the mask makers who have been sewing masks for us from the outset, for the general public and forStirling Council and Active Stirling giving us access to two estate vehicles.We are very grateful for all of that and more.We believe that Stirling Aid, has to some extent, helped plug a gap when many were desperately waiting for essential supplies to be delivered.We aim to continue to do this as long as long as the service is needed.Stirling Aid is a registered Scottish Charity SC048826. For more information about Stirling Aid please email zahir@stirlingaid.org Volunteers’ WeekVolunteer ScotlandStirling Council