We are delighted and relieved the government has committed £600 million to extend the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme for another three years. Each year, HAF supports hundreds of thousands of children and young people who would usually receive free school meals to access nutritious meals and enriching activities during the school holidays. We see first-hand through our Winter Parcel operation the difference it makes to support children and young people not just to survive, but to thrive. This funding commitment gives families and organisations the stability they need to ensure this can continue. Welcoming the news, FareShare South West CEO Lucy Bearn says: "The commitment to continue funding this vital programme will come as a huge relief to hundreds of thousands of families. "We know HAF programmes are a lifeline to so many, easing the financial strain over the school holidays and ensuring children receive the nutritious food they need to enjoy a full and active break. "Beyond this, HAF programmes help break down barriers, providing children from lower income families access to activities and opportunities they might not otherwise get, and boosting skills and confidence. Just as food has the power to enrich communities, HAF programmes work to bring people together, support families and empower communities at a grassroots level. "We are so grateful that this important work can continue into the future.” 🍎❤️ #hafprogrammes #holidaysmatter (fb)

Want to make a difference every day? We're recruiting a new Volunteer Development Manager. This could be your opportunity to lead on all aspects of recruitment, retention, and development of our thriving and diverse volunteer programme during an exciting time of expansion for FareShare South West. Closing date: Midnight on Sunday 14th September. View the full job description and essential criteria here 👉https://faresharesouthwest.org.uk/careers/#volunteer-manager #charityjobs #wearehiring #bristoljobs #recruitment (fb)