Extract from official Press Release:
“During the four weeks of last year’s Summer Lunch Project volunteers from the local community distributed over 1600 free packed lunches through five different pick-up points across Addlestone and Chertsey. In 2017, an average of 250 lunches had been collected per week, so last year’s figures represent a staggering increase of 60%, a development which cannot be ignored.
Ellie Pool, Loaves & Fishes Project Leader, who started the Summer Lunches Scheme in 2015, said, “People will be surprised to learn about the level of need in this county. The majority of state schools in this area give free school meals at rates well above the national average of 24.9%. What is more, the statistics do not reflect the high numbers of families who are not eligible for support but are struggling to make ends meet whilst both parents work. The scheme gives lunches to all children regardless of economic need, faith or free school meal status with no discrimination. We always have a donation pot available so families can make a contribution if they choose to. By operating in this way the Project aims to ensure that no child in Addlestone or Chertsey needs to go hungry and no family feels the burden of feeding their children through the long summer weeks.
Throughout the Summer Lunch Project the highlight of the week is always the Stay Play & Eat session which takes place on Fridays. At these events we have volunteers who run crafting activities and face painting and usually we have an additional highlight such as an entertainer or a petting zoo to give it a party atmosphere. There is always enough food for both children and parents/carers. Whilst it is sad to hear stories of need from the families who come, it is also very rewarding to know that the work we do is really making a difference.” This year, thanks to a grant from Runnymede Deanery Synod, we are able to increase the entertainment budget for Stay Play & Eat and also purchase printed t-shirts for the volunteers to wear throughout the month to improve visibility.
The Loaves & Fishes team carefully source lunch supplies – using surplus quality fresh food donated by Tesco in Addlestone via Fareshare and the Co-Op New Haw and sandwich fillings donated by Runnymede Foodbank. Additional ingredients are purchased as needed using funds donated through the Sponsor a Local Child Scheme - you can donate here.
The project will roll out from Monday 5 August to Friday 30 August with the final Stay Play & Eat session on Friday 30 August from 12nn – 1:30pm at St Paul’s Church. Updates on the project will be posted on the HeBrews and St Paul’s Church Facebook pages and the church website. For further information or offers of practical or financial support please contact Ellie Pool at
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or +447847937309.