As we enter the third week of school holidays on the Isle of Wight, news of the removal of holiday food-voucher help hits the national headlines.
As reported by News OnTheWight earlier this year, the number of residents claiming free school meals increased by 37 per cent in last year.
Holiday food voucher scheme withdrawn
Also reported ahead of the May half-term break, was the news that the Isle of Wight council food voucher scheme during school holidays for those on free school meals had been withdrawn after the Government changed how the funding could be used.
However, readers will be pleased to know that there are still various ways that the Isle of Wight council (IWC) is seeking to help those most in need.
New food voucher scheme
Last month IWC launched a food voucher scheme, worth £125 to applicants in receipt of Local Council Tax Support, and Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.
Those in receipt of Local Council Tax Support and benefits-related Free School Meals or Early Years Pupil Premium can apply for a £50 food voucher.
Free activities and lunches
In addition, grants totaling £213,305 have been awarded to Isle of Wight organisations who are providing schemes for children and young people from low-income families during the school holidays.
Free places are available for children who receive benefits-related free school meals and places are also available for children and young people on Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP), those open to social care, or with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Free food and Community Pantries
Free food is often also available at Aspire in Ryde and via Free Food in Sandown. If you are aware of any others let us know and we’ll add to the list.
There are also three Community Pantries on the Isle of Wight where you can buy £15 worth of food for £5.
Other local help
Kirsty Chapman from the Better Days Cafe in Ventnor is offering hope to anyone in need. She says,
“If you can’t work because your child is off school, how can you pay for food?
“Don’t worry. We have some money in the Pay It Forward Scheme. Pop in. No questions asked.”
Image: sambeckwith under CC BY 2.0
