Call for organisations to join council to help end holiday hunger

The Council is seeking support from organisations, individuals, third sector and voluntary groups across the city to help deliver a range of school summer holiday programmes that will include free meals for every nursery, primary and secondary school pupil who wish to take part.

The aim is to have holiday meal schemes in all 23 city wards and it is hoped as many as possible will be ready to feed youngsters from end of June this year.

In addition to providing food, the holiday programs could include activities for children and family engagement will also play a key role.

Councillor Allan Gow, City Treasurer, said: "This is about asking anyone who can get involved and help us to put their hand up.

"We want to hear from charities, organisations and individuals who are already working in this area so that we can give them whatever they need in order to feed the city's children year-round.

"We know there is already a lot of work going on but we have no idea how many groups are involved or what we can do for them."

A special public engagement and information event has been organised for next Tuesday, 1 May (from 2 - 4pm) at the Albany Centre,44 Ashley St, Glasgow G3 6DS for interested parties to come along and hear more about what is required, share information and find out details on how to apply for the council grant.

As Councillor Gow concludes: "In the February budget £2million was allocated for a holiday programme.

"We will respond to any requests put forward by local groups - from giving them the use of a council building, to opening up schools in the summer holidays, making funding available or laying on transport.

"Please come along to the engagement event on 1 May in the Albany Centre and tell us how you can support us.

"Together we can help end holiday hunger in our city."

Organisations and individuals can register their attendance at the event on Tuesday 1 May at the Albany Centre by calling 0141 287 5200 (open 9am -5pm,but not weekends) or emailing holidayhunger@glasgow.gov.uk