Emergency help with food costs
If you’re struggling to afford food or to buy essentials, there are several forms of help available locally. Below you’ll find a few options that can provide support for those finding it hard to manage food costs.
Each option offers different kinds of assistance — from emergency food parcels to short-term financial help — so please take a moment to look through them and choose what fits your situation best.
Access to food (or cash)
If you’re struggling to afford food or other essentials, we can help you find the right support quickly and safely. We provide local guidance for households in Garioch and nearby areas.
Tell us what’s going on and we’ll email tailored advice and signposting. If you’re eligible for specific help such as a foodbank referral, we’ll guide you through the next steps.
We won’t share your details without permission. Completing this form does not guarantee a voucher or referral.
Decisions are often made the same day. This grant can help cover essential spending until your next salary or benefit payment if you’ve run out of money. You can apply online or by phone through Aberdeenshire Council.
If the link doesn’t work, click here to search for this on Google.
If you’re on Universal Credit, you can apply for a Budgeting Advance. If you get Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance, or Pension Credit, you can apply for a Budgeting Loan. These are interest-free and can help with essentials like food or household costs.
If the link doesn’t work, click here to search for this on Google.
If you’re running low on food or essentials, you can visit the CFINE Foodbank at 2–4 Poynernook Road, Aberdeen AB11 5RW, a short walk from the bus station and Union Square. No referral is needed, and parcels include cupboard items and fresh produce when available.
If the link doesn’t work, click here to search for this on Google.
Mystery Shopping invite
If you’d like an email invite to a trusted mystery shopping organisation that regularly offers free food in cafés, restaurants, or fast-food outlets in return for short feedback about your visit, you can request one below.
You could be missing out on charitable grants that never need to be paid back. The Turn2us Grants Search matches you with funds you might be eligible for, based on your situation — it’s free, anonymous and only takes a few minutes.
If the link doesn’t work, click here to search for this on Google.
Other Help
Many people forget they still have Tesco Clubcard vouchers waiting to be spent. Check your Tesco account or app — unused vouchers can often be used for groceries or converted into rewards, which might help you bridge the gap until your next payment.
If the link doesn’t work, click here to search for this on Google.
Help from Your Housing Provider
If you rent from Aberdeenshire Council or a housing association, contact your housing officer or support team.
Many housing providers can offer supermarket or food vouchers and other short-term help for tenants in crisis — it’s always worth asking what support is available.
Support from Friends, Family or Neighbours
Many people feel uneasy asking for help, but those who care about you will often want to help if they know you’re struggling. Sharing a meal, adding a few essentials to your shop, or just checking in can make a real difference.
Psychologists have even found that when someone helps you, it can make them feel closer to you — because people like to help those they care about. So don’t be afraid to reach out; you’d do the same for those you care about.