14 July 2023 , 05:41
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A schoolgirl wrote a heartbreaking note about the cost of living crisis after watching her mum skip meals.
Sophia McKenzie was asked to write about her hopes for the future, leading her to pen a heartfelt message about her family's financial difficulties.
The 10-year-old's single mum Heather Griffiths goes hungry to let her four children eat - something that has stuck in her daughter's mind.
Sophia, of The Muir Street Primary School in Motherwell, Scotland, wrote: "I have a dream that one day we will live in a world where the cost of living crisis stops and everything is free and nobody struggles with not being able to eat."
Heather, 33, said she felt very emotional when she read Sophia's work.
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Sophia was asked to write about her hopes for the futureSpeaking to the Daily Record, she added: "It's quite upsetting knowing just how much kids are worrying about it but she also makes me so proud. It shows me just how selfless she is.
"I'm a single mum with four kids so it was hard before the cost of living started. Now it's even harder to make my money stretch.
"Sophia sees how much it upsets me when I can't get them everything they want and she's seen me go without food so they have enough to eat."
Heather said her family has relied on food banks in the past, however, she feels several families feel ashamed to admit they need help.
Sophia's mum Heather Griffiths said the family has relied on food banks in the past (AFP via Getty Images)She added: "I think in this day and age food banks are extremely vital, however, most require a referral and I think a lot of people are too embarrassed to ask.
"The Wee Mobile Food Bank, Lanarkshire, which I have used in the past, is incredible. It is literally a couple of people who work full-time jobs who drive around in their spare time helping so many people. They don't ask for referrals and are very discreet."
Heather posted Sophia's message on The Wee Mobile Food Bank's Facebook page and people were quick to comment to offer support.
One woman said: "She will go far. What a caring girl."
Another added: "Such a lovely thoughtful thing to write, that’s a young girl to be proud of."
One other wrote: "For a child to write that it just goes to show how hard it's getting with the cost of living. Such a thoughtful thing to say. Her mum should be so proud of her. It also goes to show that it's also affecting children."
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