Fun activities and food are again being put on for West Sussex children over the Christmas holiday which eligible families can now book.
West Sussex County Council has again teamed up with local clubs and organisations around the county to offer free, festive fun throughout the school break.
The programme is available for children aged 4 to 16 who receive benefits-related free school meals. Eligible children and young people can take part in a range of fun activities and enjoy a nutritious meal during the two-week break.
The Winter Holiday Activity and Food programme runs from 17 December 2021 – 4 January 2022 and families can search the clubs available near them and book on the Family Information Service online directory.
West Sussex County Council is also again providing supermarket food vouchers over the Christmas school holiday for every child who receives benefits-related free schools meals. Eligible children will receive a £40 voucher (£20 per week) through their school, irrespective of whether they are taking part in the HAF scheme.
Nigel Jupp, Cabinet Member for Learning and Skills, said:
“The summer Holiday Activity and Food programme was a great success, where 2,000 children from all over West Sussex joined holiday clubs and enjoyed a nutritious meal.
"Young people made new friends, learnt skills and most importantly, had lots of fun, so I would encourage families to find the clubs near them and book.
“Once again we are providing food vouchers over the school holiday as part of this comprehensive package of support for West Sussex families at a time when Covid-19 continues to have an impact on many.”
The HAF programme is fully funded by the Department for Education and supported by Marcus Rashford, the England footballer and school meals campaigner.
Families can find out more and watch a video of children having fun over the summer on their webpage:
https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/campaigns/holiday-activities-and-food-programme/
The West Sussex Community Hub, which has been operating throughout the pandemic, continues to be available to provide support, including food and essentials for those who need them. This includes support for children and families that are not eligible for free school meals.
People can contact the Community Hub through the website or by calling 0330 222 7980. Opening hours are 8am – 8pm from Monday to Friday and 9am – 5pm at weekends and bank holidays.
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