There is still time for community groups, nurseries, schools and sports activity providers to apply for funding to run holiday activity and food schemes for eligible youngsters during the Easter holidays.
The connect4communities programme is using Department for Work and Pensions funding to provide activities and food for children and young people on benefits-eligible free school meals over the Easter school holidays.
Places are also available for children on Education and Health Care Plans (EHCP) or those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
However, the deadline for applications is 20th February.
The grant is in addition to previous funding from the Department for Education which has fed and entertained those children who are eligible for free school meals during the Easter, summer, and Christmas holidays in 2021.
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for children’s services at the Isle of Wight Council, said:
“We are very happy to be able to continue to work with local organisations, making these much-needed schemes available over Easter.
“We are keen to encourage more applications for this grant funding to reach as many families and their children as possible. I have visited some of these schemes and have seen first-hand the enjoyment and fun that the children who attend experience.
Article continues below this advertisement “We want to be able to build on previous programmes and support a varied programme of schemes from a variety of providers Island-wide.
“Across the Island, there are children and young people who are eligible for free school meals who can take part in fun and healthy activities, which are local to them, and held within a safe, warm environment with a nutritious meal provided.
“I encourage local community groups and voluntary organisations to apply for a grant because these clubs and schemes make a real difference to the lives of Island children.”
Organisations should go to the connect4communities website for details, where they will also find full guidance and application forms.
