A local initiative which provides free lunches for up to 50 primary school children in Seaton has received a £1,000 boost which will be used to purchase ingredients.
Seaton Community Church received the donation from the CALA Homes (North) community bursary. The organisation runs a Make Lunches scheme which dishes out free lunches three days per week during school holidays.
Kirsty Harrold, organiser of the Make Lunches scheme at Seaton Community Church, said: “Holiday hunger is a huge problem for many families across the region.
“Children are guaranteed a free nutritious meal at school however parents can often struggle to cover the added costs of buying additional meals during holidays.
“Our initiative is staffed solely by volunteers and funded by the church. Any donations which help us to purchase vegetables and other items to deliver wholesome meals for primary pupils are always gratefully received.”
Seaton Community Church also runs a number of groups for children and families including a youth club, mums and toddlers coffee group and cage football sessions.
The organisation is one of 11 community groups, charities and local organisations in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire which will receive a share of the housebuilder’s £10,000 community bursary this year.
Barry Bruce, trades co-ordinator at CALA Homes (North), added: “I had the opportunity to visit Seaton Community Church to meet with some of the Make Lunches scheme’s fantastic volunteers who make delicious meals for youngsters.
“The initiative is a vital service for many people in the area who would perhaps struggle to provide a balanced meal for their children seven days a week during school holidays.
“It ensures these children are getting the nutrients they need in order to grow and learn. It was a pleasure to meet the volunteers and help the organisation carry on its work during the summer holidays.”
Other successful community bursary applicants include 17th Aberdeen Scout Group, Community Food Initiative North East, Pitscurry Day Service, SensationALL, GCRA Ltd, Sunrise Partnership, Alzheimer Scotland, Aberdeen Riding Club, CHAS, and Aberdeen Science Centre.