YMCA Cheltenham to provide free meals for 120 children this summer
Family-focused events to tackle holiday hunger
YMCA Cheltenham is set to provide support to more than 120 children by hosting family-focused events throughout the summer holidays, aimed at addressing food poverty across Cheltenham.
The charity will hold a series of events at King George V Playing Field including 'Play in the Park' on 22nd July, 29th July, and 12th August from 10.30am to 2pm.
These events, funded by Gloucestershire County Council’s Holiday Activities and Food programme, will offer nutritious meals and activities for children aged up to 11 and their carers.
Attendees can enjoy a packed lunch after participating in recreational activities such as football, badminton, and arts and crafts organised by Youth For Christ and Sportily.
The event concludes with a story time session hosted by Gloucestershire Libraries.
On 5th August, YMCA Cheltenham will participate in 'Party in the Park', which will be hosted by Cheltenham Borough Council.
The initiative aims to provide food to any child in need and includes sports and craft activities.
Linda Grice, YMCA Cheltenham’s Connect Community Manager, highlighted the importance of the summer provision: “Play in the Park forms part of our wider Holiday Provision Programme whereby we will be running a series of safe and secure events over the summer."
Further events include 'Stay and Play' at Hesters Way Baptist Church on 4th August, offering toys, games, and craft activities for children, along with packed lunches.
On 13th August, a Sports Activity event at YMCA Sports Centre invites children aged 10-15 to enjoy badminton, basketball, and football followed by making their own pizza for tea.
Grice added, “Through our Holiday Provision Programme, children and young people can enjoy new experiences, develop confidence, build friendships and create lasting memories that support their personal growth and development.”