A Brighton-based initiative is addressing food insecurity among local families while offering children opportunities for enrichment during school breaks.
Parents and their offspring gathered at Devils Dyke to participate in Chomp, a complimentary lunch programme designed for households experiencing financial hardship during holiday periods.
The scheme operates throughout Brighton and Hove, delivered by the charitable organisation One Church.
Young attendees engage in diverse activities such as woodland foraging expeditions and culinary workshops throughout the summer vacation.
Caroline Bailey, who coordinates the programme, emphasised that the initiative fosters social connections within the community.
Prior to meals, children venture outdoors to discover edible plants growing in natural surroundings, collecting wild ingredients such as elderberries and transforming them into beverages.
The absence of adequate finances during school holidays frequently prevents families from accessing recreational activities alongside nutritious food.
This dual deprivation prompted the creation of services that address both nutritional and social requirements.
Sam Corry, aged 39, serves as a minister at One Church and has contributed to the programme for six years, describing the gatherings as remarkable experiences.
The scheme ensures all activities remain accessible at no cost, unlike numerous other holiday provisions that impose significant charges upon attendees.
Long-term participants Heather and Michelle have frequented Chomp events for several years, acknowledging the scheme provides valuable respite during the extended six-week break.
Michelle, who raises children alone, noted that single parents occasionally require supplementary assistance.
She observed that the venue offers children somewhere to occupy their time when schools close.
Heather reported that her son had previously resisted trying unfamiliar dishes but willingly experiments with new foods at the programme.
Some culinary introductions prove successful while others do not, she explained.
The pair also expressed appreciation for additional excursions arranged by the scheme, including a museum trip that participants could attend without charge.
Maddy Sharp, aged 26, assists with various activities including creative craft sessions.
While the events maintain their enjoyable character, funding constraints present considerable challenges.
Reduced financial support for such provisions combined with closures of educational and community facilities creates mounting difficulties for families in need.
Meals and More, a charitable foundation dedicated to supporting households during school closures, provides backing for the initiative.
Sam Payne, the organisation’s managing director, confirmed that holiday food insecurity affects families throughout Brighton, Sussex and the broader United Kingdom.
This season has witnessed unprecedented numbers of parents struggling to manage household budgets through the summer period.
Local partners including One Church and Chomp have demonstrated exceptional commitment by supplying children with wholesome meals, secure environments and opportunities for play, learning and emotional support.
The foundation’s sustained involvement enables continued funding of programmes reaching families who would otherwise lack essential resources.
Thanks to this backing and the commitment of local volunteers, numerous young people in Brighton have accessed proper nutrition and constructive experiences throughout the current summer break.