Groups around York are providing community meals during half term, to help bring people together and stave off hunger.
The York Food Poverty Alliance has compiled a list of venues and organisations serving free or pay-as-you-feel food during half term week.
In a similar project during the summer holidays, more than 2,400 meals or food parcels were served or distributed.
‘Children should not suffer’
Maddy Power, of York Food Poverty Alliance, said: “The school holidays are a really tough time for many families.
“Stagnant incomes and rising living costs are making it harder and harder for people to stay afloat, and when the holidays come along the additional costs can drag people into the rising tide of poverty.
“Children need nutritious food every day but many are going hungry, which simply isn’t right. The Government is looking into safeguarding child nutrition all year round, but local children should not suffer while that deliberation takes place.
“The kindness and compassion shown by community groups in York was amazing during the summer, and we’re relieved to be able to meet the need again, with some form of provision every day next week.”
Venues being used next week include sites in Tang Hall, Heworth, Acomb, Foxwood, Chapelfields, Clifton and the recently-redeveloped Red Tower in Foss Islands Road.
For more information on York Food Poverty Alliance, or for details or regular cafes, food drop-ins or emergency provision, visit their website.