MSP hails group’s efforts to ensure children remain fed during school break

A Fife group has been applauded for its work to ensure local children do not suffer from holiday hunger.

The Auchterderran voluntary team has been praised by Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Claire Baker.

The group is running a drop-in cafe from 10am to 1pm every Tuesday in Auchterderran Hall.

It is open to anyone to come along, enjoy some breakfast or lunch and have a chat.

“I would urge anyone that feels they, or their children, might be vulnerable to holiday hunger to get in touch with the council and find out what services are available to them locally, to ensure that no child goes hungry in Fife this summer,” said Mrs Baker.

The Labour politician has previously called for Fife Council to learn from North Lanarkshire, which she said is leading the way with its Food 365 initiative.

While schools are closed for the summer holidays, some children risk going hungry because they cannot rely on a school meal or breakfast.

The MSP said Fife’s public and voluntary sectors were pulling together this summer to help families facing financial difficulties.

The programme includes a range of play schemes at which youngsters are given meals.

Mrs Baker added: “Holiday hunger is a serious issue in some of the most deprived areas across Scotland and I welcome the announcement by Fife that they will be targeting children who face going hungry this summer.”

She said no one should be left struggling. “We should recognise the work of voluntary organisations throughout Fife who are responding to need in their communities.

“We owe them a deep sense of gratitude for the work that they do.”

Labour councillor Judy Hamilton said: “We have to do what we can to combat this problem.”

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Holiday hunger is a serious issue in some of the most deprived areas across Scotland. CLAIRE BAKER MSP