Bedford Borough children from families that receive income-related free school meals are again eligible for a £15 voucher per week each, for the full six weeks. To date, £665,090 worth of vouchers have been directly issued to parents of 6,609eligible children and young people to help with the cost of shopping for food.
The free school meals food vouchers scheme is part of the package of support launched by Bedford Borough Council and voluntary sector partners earlier in the school year for families and households.
Cllr Michael Headley, portfolio holder for finance said, “Once again I am delighted to say we will be continuing our support for children, young people and families in Bedford Borough by providing supermarket vouchers to those in need.
“We know free school meals are a welcome lifeline to many families, so it was an easy decision to once again provide vouchers for all eligible families during the holidays.
“Many families continue to struggle and I hope that by issuing these vouchers families can focus on enjoying the break, rather than worrying about where their children’s next meal is coming from.”
Children are eligible for the vouchers if their family receives one of the benefits listed below:
The Council and Bedford Borough schools are encouraging more families to register and apply for free school meals, so that they begin to receive the support they need.
To find out if you are eligible and to register for free school meals visit www.bedford.gov.uk/schools-education-and-childcare/education-welfare-service/free-school-meals/
