A SCHEME aimed at getting children active whilst offering them a healthy meal and the chance to meet new friends will now be rolled out across Bromsgrove district.
After unanimous approval at Wednesday’s full council meeting, ‘Active Kitchen’ – already operating in Sidemoor and Charford – will be extended to other areas in time for the October half-term, at a cost of £34,000.
The programme provided more than 400 healthy holiday meals in Charford and Sidemoor after it was commissioned by Bromsgrove District Council last year.
It is available for nine to 14-year-olds who are eligible for free school meals to ensure they stay healthy and enjoy food together during the school holidays.
Coun Shirley Webb, Bromsgrove District Council’s portfolio holder for community services, said: “This is still a pilot scheme so we will be bringing it back to cabinet in 2020 for further consideration but it’s important to give it time, roll it out and then get feedback from all groups.”
The original scheme was funded by county councillors Chris Bloore and Luke Mallett and was delivered by the YMCA at Newsong Community Church and St Andrews Church.
All the meals were provided completely free of charge by Life Fork and Spoon, a local supplier of fully cooked dishes.
Council leader Coun Karen May added: “Active Kitchen doesn’t only provide fun and active opportunities for young people in the holidays.
“It also includes a good meal and many parents will know even in this day and age, knowing that the children are eating well when they’re out is a boost, and it all helps them make ends meet.”
Active Kitchen restarted on Tuesday, July 23, and sessions so far have provided games, crafts and activities.
Sessions are co-ordinated by the district council in partnership with Bromsgrove Rugby Club, West Mercia Police, and Jump Rope UK.
Volunteers to help prepare or serve at Active Kitchen are always needed.
Anyone who can help should email the council’s sports development team at [email protected] or call 01527 64252.
