This week the government voted not to extend the free school meal provision over half term. During the summer the government had extended the free meals to children whilst not at school for those who would normally receive free school meals.
This has been a major disappointment and created worry for many, so local care company There4U have stepped in to fill at least part of the gap and has offered to provide free packed lunches in the Amesbury area.
Speaking to Salisbury Radio There4U MD Jo Broom explained the reasoning behind the decision:
As a family-run company, we were upset to learn that some children might go hungry in the half-term because they would not have access to free school meals. Our Director Dana, who has three young children herself, wanted to help so we decided that we could make a packed lunch in our office in Amesbury for any child that would benefit. It is our way of supporting the local community and we hope it helps.
The company posted to their Facebook page last night about the offer.
The Government have voted against giving lunches for those children in need this half term so we would like to be ”There4u”
If you live in Amesbury and will be struggling to feed your children during half term. Please call us on 01722 774444 and we will make a packed lunch for your child that you can collect from our office on Solstice Park between 12 and 2. Any allergies must be disclosed at time of call.