Children receiving free school meals will get £50 food vouchers from Bedford Borough to help with Christmas holiday costs.
The Council initiative provides eligible children with £15 per week towards food, and a further £10 a week for additional expenses. It is funded by the government’s Household Support Fund.
Councillor Michael Headley, portfolio holder for finance and welfare said: “It is vitally important to us that no child goes hungry in Bedford Borough. We know what a difference this help can make especially in colder winter months and with the rising cost of food, energy and other essential items.
“Hopefully this support will mean children and young people can enjoy their Christmas without families worrying about where their child’s next meal is coming from.”
Children are eligible if their family receives one of the following benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- Support under Part 6 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- The guaranteed element of Pension Credit
- Working Tax Credit run-on
- Child Tax Credit
- Early Years Pupil Premium
- 2-Year-Old Funding
To check if you are eligible or to register for free school meals, visit here.
Vouchers will be emailed or sent via the school.
