Thousands of Croydon children who qualify for free school meals will be offered free activity clubs and healthy meals over the summer and Christmas holidays this year.

The council has received funding from the Department for Education’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme which aims to encourage young people to lead healthier and more active lifestyles during the holidays.

Increased costs and reduced incomes mean the school holidays can be particular pressure points for some disadvantaged families who might be less likely to access organised out-of-school activities because of financial challenges.

From today (21 May) Croydon Council has opened applications for partners who can deliver high quality holiday club provision over the 2021 summer and Christmas school holidays which includes healthy food, physical and enrichment activities.

Applicants will also be asked to explain how they will signpost families who need it to a range of support including help with budgeting, welfare benefits and problems with debt.

There are two funding strands: applications for £25,000 and under and applications for larger grants of £25,000 and over. The deadline for both is 14 June.

“The school holidays can be very difficult for some families so I am very pleased that we have received this funding which aims to benefit all children on free school meals.

“We are also looking forward to working with a host of partners from across the community in a bid to organise a diverse range of holiday schemes so there is something for children of all ages, backgrounds and interests.”

Councillor Alisa Flemming, cabinet member for children, young people and learning

To apply for funding providers should visit: https://www.croydon.gov.uk/community-and-safety/advice-and-funding-community-groups/funding-opportunities/holiday-activities-and-food-haf-programme-funding-opportunity