Croydon Council has announced the return of its Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme this Easter, offering local children a range of free activities and meals. The initiative, which is government-funded, is designed to support children eligible for benefits-related free school meals by providing both entertainment and essential nutrition during the holiday period.
This year, 67 clubs will operate across Croydon, offering a variety of engaging activities such as sports, music, coding, and cooking. Children eligible for the programme can attend up to four sessions throughout the Easter holidays.
The programme also provides valuable support for parents and carers by offering childcare during the break. Families with eligible children will receive vouchers from their child’s school and a unique code through the HAF platform, HolidayActivities. For families residing in Croydon but attending schools outside the borough, a request form for vouchers is available.
Parents are encouraged to reach out to clubs in advance to discuss any additional support required, particularly for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Jason Perry, the Executive Mayor of Croydon, expressed the significance of the programme, stating, “The HAF Programme is a wonderful opportunity for our children to stay active, gain new skills, and form friendships over the Easter holidays while ensuring they receive a healthy, nutritious meal each day. It is essential support for our community, and I have advocated for its continuation beyond March by contacting the Secretary of State for Education last September.”
The programme continues to grow, with multiple partner organizations helping to deliver these clubs across the borough, ensuring children and families have access to much-needed services during the school break.
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