LOW-INCOME families are being given a cash boost to help feed their children during the school summer holidays.
East Lothian Council said families eligible for free school meals would receive a cash payment of £73.60 per child to cover the summer weeks youngsters were at home.
The money is being paid into bank accounts following the end of the school term last week.
Additional support is going to families with a Scottish Government Scottish Child Payment of £130 per child.
The council said it had also received £161,537 from the Scottish Government’s Summer Holiday Food, Activities and Childcare Programme, which has been allocated to projects across the county to provide activities, childcare and food for children aged five to 14 from low-income families.
Among projects benefiting from the additional holiday fund are Can Do, which provides one-on-one support for children with disabilities; Pennypit Community Trust’s lunch club and activities which support families in Prestonpans and surrounding areas; and pop-up play sessions from East Lothian Play Association.
Councillor Fiona Dugdale, cabinet spokesperson for education, families and children’s services, said: “We know that the current economic climate is making things extremely challenging for many in our communities, including families.
“By offering financial support to families who are eligible for free school meals to cover holiday lunches, we hope that we can alleviate some of this pressure.
“The Scottish Government Child Payment is also welcome and shows the additional benefits that families can access when they sign up for free school meals.
“There are other supports available and the council’s teams and our partners are available to provide help and advice on issues including benefits and welfare support, council tax or rent, or help with energy costs.
“I would encourage anyone concerned about their financial situation to get in touch and find out more about the help available.”
For more information on eligibility for free school meals, go to eastlothian.gov.uk/fsm
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