A NEW community hub is set to open in Cowdenbeath.

Knights Templar Goodwill Charity of Scotland are based at Unit 12 at Innovation Park and the new hub will be the first of many for veterans and the homeless in the area.

A total of 13 people now volunteer and an open day will be held on June 3 between 11am and 3pm.

It is expected to be open at least three days a week, with at least two volunteers in at any one time.

The public can meet volunteers, access the clothing container on site, receive a care package, see how food is stored and more.

The Times told you in January this year that the group received charitable status in May last year, and between December 2021 and 2022 they were able to distribute more than 1,000 care packages to those in need in Central Fife and other areas across Scotland.

Each distinctive red drawstring bag they hand out contains as many as 15 items, including food, water, tissues, foil blankets, gloves, hats, soaps, wipes and more.

Gary Stevenson, chairman, said: "Our hub will be used as both a collection point and a place where people can pop in and pick up a care pack without having any stigma or embarrassment attached.

"At the hub they will be able to get a bite to eat, clothing if required, and access to the internet."

"The hub will help support individuals with their mental health and wellbeing and help tackle social isolation.

"The hub will provide a social and safe contact point to those most vulnerable and give further support as required.

"We will be working with a number of partner groups who will be able to either support or refer vulnerable individuals to our hub but our hub is also a place where people can come along without referral.

"We aim to provide additional support to those we make contact with through providing clothing, essential food, help and support.

"Our hub will significantly support those who have mental health challenges and those who are facing severe poverty.

"The main aim of the hub is to support those in the local area who are vulnerable and homeless.

"Our hub will help with the relief of poverty by developing and distributing care packs to those who are in the greatest need.

"The care packs will consist of essential items from food, hygiene products, comfort and first aid."

Local companies such as The Blind Company, Thistle Caravan Storage and the Asda Foundation at Halbeath, have all helped on the hub.