Calderdale Council and Community Foundation for Calderdale (CFFC) have launched the “School Holiday Food Support Grant” programme to help local organisations who are providing healthy meals and food parcels during the school holidays.
Grants will be awarded to support vulnerable people in the immediate emergency caused by Coronavirus (COVID 19); to reduce hunger over the summer and beyond; and to have a lasting positive impact on families.
Grants of up to £5,000 are available for charities and not for profit organisations in Calderdale and partnership projects are particularly welcomed.
Organisations need to apply immediately to meet urgent need, before the closing date of Monday 3 August 2020. The needs of families over summer have recently been highlighted nationally. The joint fund in Calderdale will help build on the national scheme and support families through the summer and help build their resilience for the future.
Nationally, the Trussell Trust(external link) reported an 81% increase for emergency food parcels from food banks during the last two weeks of March 2020, compared to the same period in 2019 – including a 122% rise in parcels given to children. Locally, child poverty rates are increasing and are as high as 50% in some parts of Calderdale.
CEO of CFFC, Steve Duncan DL, explained:
“Organisations have already been innovative in their applications by including tried and trusted techniques as well as creative ways to promote a healthy balanced diet and exercise for the whole family to deliver projects over the school summer holidays.”
Cllr Susan Press, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, said:
“We know it’s a tough time for local families, and how important it is for them to get the food they need to stay healthy. We continue to work with Calderdale’s community sector to support the most vulnerable, and urge these organisations to apply for a grant to help provide food support during the summer holidays.”
To apply, visit www.cffc.co.uk(external link) The first deadline is 12 noon on Monday 3 August and we are working to award grants very quickly. Contact the Grants team, grants@cffc.co.uk for any queries.