A hugely popular scheme that has supported thousands of children across the city with healthy food and fun activities during school holidays will continue over the summer.
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme - Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s partnership with the Hubb Foundation will run Wednesday 26 July to Monday 31 August.
This summer there will be over 771 sessions taking place, totalling more than 28,495 opportunities for school-aged children from reception to year 11. Sessions will offer a variety of activities such as physical activities, enrichment activities and nutrition workshops; in addition to a free healthy meal.
The Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme recognises that school holidays can be pressure points for some families due to increased costs and reduced incomes. Some children are more likely to experience ‘unhealthy holidays’ in terms of nutrition and physical health and some children from lower-income families are less likely to access fun activities.
The key elements of the programme are:
- Healthy food
- Enriching activities
- Physical activities
- Nutritional education
- Signposting and referrals
- Policies and procedures.
Councillor Jane Ashworth, council leader said: “Summer holiday provision is really important and it has to be free because families are struggling.
“It’s become extraordinarily clear that the cost of living crisis is the biggest challenge facing our residents and we’re committed to playing a central role in combatting it, supporting our families and communities.
“HAF is a clear example of working alongside our partners to make sure that children in the city from low-income households have plenty of activities to be doing in the holidays with a healthy lunch thrown in.”
Cllr Lynn Watkins, cabinet member for Children’s Services said: “I firmly believe that by engaging with families through programmes like HAF we can make a huge difference to the life chances for children across the city.
“I’d encourage any residents who are struggling with summer holiday activities and food to check out what is on offer through HAF and book onto a session.”
Adam Yates, Hubb Foundation chief operating officer, said: “Our team at the Hubb Foundation work tirelessly all year round working with schools, community venues and our fabulous delivery partners to ensure that we can offer a breadth of support to as many children and families as we can. We are passionate about what we do and proud of the Hubb Foundation’s journey.”
Families can book community sessions across the city at https://www.thehubbfoundation.com/copy-of-what-s-on
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