As the Easter holidays approach, we’re thrilled to announce that we’ve successfully secured the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) funding for a second time! This fantastic initiative, funded by the government, is designed to ensure that children who receive free school meals have access to enriching activities and nutritious food over the school holidays. For many families, it’s an essential support system that provides a safety net during the holiday periods, offering not just meals but a chance for children to learn, play, and socialise in a positive and safe environment.
What is the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme?
The HAF programme was launched by the Department for Education to help combat holiday hunger and provide children from low-income families with a range of free activities during the school holidays. It aims to offer children engaging experiences that they might not otherwise have access to, while also addressing food insecurity by providing a nutritious meal every day.
The initiative is a win-win: children get to take part in exciting activities, develop new skills, and make memories with their peers, while parents and guardians can have peace of mind knowing their children are being supported in a fun, structured, and safe environment. It's a vital programme that helps level the playing field for children across the country, allowing them to enjoy their holidays without the burden of financial worries.
Why is HAF So Important?
Holiday periods can be challenging for families who rely on free school meals during term time. For many, the absence of school lunches can make the long holidays even harder. The HAF programme addresses this by ensuring that children have access to healthy meals, keeping them nourished and energised for the day's activities.
In addition to tackling food insecurity, HAF also provides a much-needed opportunity for children to stay active and engaged. The free activities offered as part of the programme cover a wide range of interests—from sports and arts to cooking and outdoor exploration—enabling kids to learn, grow, and develop new skills in a fun and supportive environment. It also gives them the chance to make new friends and form lasting memories, which is vital for their social and emotional well-being.
A Proud Moment: Securing HAF Funding for the Second Time
We’re incredibly proud to announce that we’ve secured HAF funding once again for this Easter holiday! After successfully running the programme over the Christmas period, we are excited to build on that success and offer even more opportunities for children in our community. It’s a testament to the positive impact the programme has had, and we’re committed to continuing to provide children with a safe and exciting space to enjoy their holidays.
This second round of funding is especially significant as it highlights the ongoing support from the government and our local community, ensuring that the most vulnerable children continue to receive the help they need. With this funding, we can expand the range of activities, enhance the quality of the provision, and continue to meet the needs of our local families.
More Information Coming Soon!
While we’re excited to have secured the HAF funding, we’re still finalising the details regarding locations and dates for the Easter holidays. Rest assured, we’ll be releasing all the important information soon, so keep an eye out for updates! We’ll provide full details on where and when children can take part in the activities, as well as how to sign up.
A Positive Future
Securing HAF funding for the Easter holidays is more than just a chance to provide free meals and activities; it’s a stepping stone towards creating a brighter future for our children. We’re proud to play a part in this initiative and can’t wait to see the joy and excitement that the Easter programme will bring.
The HAF programme is a wonderful reminder of how communities, schools, and local authorities can work together to support children, families, and their future. With this funding in place, we’re helping ensure that every child has the chance to enjoy their holidays, have fun, and grow.
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