School holidays are a great opportunity to spend time together with the family but they can also bring extra pressure. With children being at home, the weekly cost of food naturally goes up and can push a household’s budget to its limits. But you don’t have to struggle alone as there are loads of food support options available across the region.

If you’re worried about feeding your family, here is how you can access help.

Difference between Food Banks and Food Pantries

A food bank and food pantry are two separate food support options and choosing the right one depends on whether you need immediate emergency support or a long term solution to reduce weekly food costs.

• Food banks provide free food parcels to households in an emergency situation which usually lasts up to 3 days. To gain access to these food parcels, a referral or a food voucher is required from a professional such as a GP, social worker or a charity organisation.
• Food pantries provide a long-term solution which are available to local residents without the need for a referral. Just like a local shop, you pay a small membership fee (usually between £2 and £5) and in return, you choose a variety of grocery items including fresh fruit and vegetables, frozen food, tinned goods, pasta, rice, etc. 

Where to find local food support

Food banks 

To find an emergency food bank near you, visit the Trussell Trust’s website, who aim to have at least one centre open each day in North and South Liverpool. 

Find the nearest food support in your local area below:

• Sefton 
• Liverpool 
• Wirral 
• St Helens 
• Cheshire East 
• Cheshire West 
• Knowsley 
• Chorley 

Food clubs and pantries 

When looking for community food spaces, pantries and mobile markets in your area, explore the Feeding Liverpool’s website which is led by local people and organisations, and can help you connect with the community through activities and volunteering. 

Holiday Activity and Food Programme 

If your children receive free school meals, then during school holidays, they may be eligible for the Holiday and Activity Food Programme which is fully funded by the government and run by your local councils. The programme provides free healthy meals and offers engaging activities such as arts, sports, drama and music to help strengthen skills and increase knowledge. To check the eligibility criteria and apply, visit the Government’s website.