The Progressive Alliance which runs Milton Keynes City Council helped over 11,000 low-income families with food costs during the October half term.
The City Council distributed £191,515 in food vouchers to support families with children in receipt of benefit-related free school meals.
Eligible parents received a £15 supermarket voucher to spend per child. This was a lifeline for many parents juggling the soaring food and energy costs.
The Progressive Alliance has since allocated a further £700,000 to provide vouchers during the two-week Christmas holiday and the week-long February half term. This funding is part of the £3.3m Winter Plan which provides practical and financial support during the cost-of-living crisis.
Councillor Jane Carr, Liberal Democrat Progressive Alliance Cabinet Member for Tackling Social Inequalities, said:
“The Progressive Alliance are doing all that they can to ensure those struggling don’t have to choose between putting food on the table or heating their homes. I’m pleased that we have helped thousands of low-income families so far, and we won’t stop there. We will work to ensure children who would normally have access to a free school meal don’t go hungry this winter.”
The City Council has also set aside £190,000 to fund winter activities during the Christmas break. The sessions will run for four days between the 19th and 22ndDecember and will include a hot meal.
Councillor Zoe Nolan, Labour Progressive Alliance Cabinet Member for Children and Families, added:
“We understand Christmas is a tough time for many families, that’s why we have set aside this funding to provide some relief for parents and children over the holidays. The Progressive Alliance works hard to support the children of Milton Keynes and provide help to those who need it.”