How school holiday clubs provided 25,000 free meals for kids in Salford

More than 25,000 free meals have been served up to young people this summer in Salford.

The  food has been provided as part of the summer Holiday Activities Food (HAF) Programme.

It sees children aged from four to 16-year-olds in Salford and eligible for free school meals taking part in a summer of fun.

The council has joined with schools and organisations to provide an action-packed summer from July 25 to August 18.

Activities include baking and cooking, arts and crafts, sports, music and more. All sessions include lunch and are delivered by amazing local Salford organisations and community groups.

Councillor Sharmina August, lead member for inclusive economy, anti-poverty and equalities at Salford city council, has visited Salford Red Devils Foundation camp at Eccles college. She said: “It’s amazing to see people come in free of charge, have a healthy meal, as well as do a really healthy activity.

“It’s so important, we know so many children who have free school meals across the city, it’s the only nutritious food they have across the day. We want to make sure across the holidays nobody loses out on that.

“Over the summer holidays we’re providing over 25,000 nutritious meals to children, to make sure they don’t lose out. It is fantastic to see first-hand and I’m so proud of all the people and agencies involved. They are a credit to this city.

“In addition to the many fun activities taking place as part of the programme HAF programme our Citywide Services and Operational Teams will prepare and deliver over 25,000 meals to over 60 sites across the city to ensure children and young people have a healthy meal.

“It’s also a great opportunity to make friends and try something new.”

The HAF programme runs throughout the year at Easter, summer and winter holidays and you can see what’s happening throughout the year at the HAF page.