A multi-cultural inclusion day is being held next month to help asylum seekers based in East Kilbride integrate with the local community.
The event is being organised by the Community Police Officer for East Kilbride Town Centre and will take place on Friday, July 1 in Princes Mall.
PC Thom Alexander said it comes after Mears, who are acting on behalf of the Home Office, had voiced concerns that some local residents had been "making baseless complaints" regarding Somali asylum seekers based in the Bruce Hotel.
He told Lanarkshire Live : "Recently I have had some local residents raise concerns and apprehensions regarding asylum seekers that are being housed in The Bruce Hotel.
"Setting out to help, I believe that the complaints were unfounded and to dispel this and to make those seeking asylum feel welcome in the community and to put local residents minds at ease, I have organised a multicultural inclusion event.
"This will include members from each nationality thinking of a native dish from their country, picking the ingredients and having the dish prepared.
"There will of course be some traditional Scottish fare as well, haggis, neeps and tatties and some Irn Bru and my mum has even offered to make a batch of her renowned tablet.
"This will all be placed in front of the flag of each nation and samples handed out.
"I have sourced funding for this from various partners and reached out to the Scottish Refugee Council to allow them to offer any assistance and services to those seeking asylum here.
"I have also asked if they would be able to hand out smart phones in order for the asylum seekers to stay in contact with family.
And with the current conflict in Ukraine, PC Alexander feels the event will have a number of benefits.
"I hope this will give those seeking asylum a purpose, make them feel included and part of the community, dispel any apprehensions within the community, bring together not just the community but all necessary partner agencies to support those seeking asylum, " the officer added.
"I know that as Scots we are a diverse, welcoming and inclusive nation and this will showcase to everyone - that we are a community regardless of how or why you are in Scotland.
"With the current conflict in Ukraine and those fleeing the war, I think this would highlight to those seeking shelter here that Scotland will welcome you with open arms and encourage others to support those seeking shelter regardless of where you are from."
The event will be held from 10am to 2pm within Unit 37 of the Princes Mall, nearest the bus station, in EK, East Kilbride.
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