West Berks Foodbank Expands Hungry Holidays Scheme to Support Over 1,100 Local Children This Summer

West Berks Foodbank’s “Hungry Holidays” initiative is back for Summer 2025 — and bigger than ever. With 46 schools signed up, the programme is set to support 1,140 children across West Berkshire over the school holidays, providing significant support with food and essential supplies to families most in need.

As the cost-of-living crisis deepens, local organisations are stepping in to fill critical gaps. On Friday, staff from Greenham Trust rolled up their sleeves to volunteer with the scheme, helping pack the large school orders. The Trust praised the experience, calling it “an enlightening experience supporting an incredible cause and gaining a true appreciation for the hard work of the Foodbank team and volunteers. Proud to give back to our community!”

Food and essential items such as laundry detergent is bulk delivered to schools, where welfare officers discreetly distribute them to families inneed. These include both pupil premium families and those who don’t meet the threshold for government support — often working parents who are forced to skip meals themselves to feed their children.

“The reality is harsh,” said a spokesperson for West Berks Foodbank. “Rising rents, up to £400 monthly increases in mortgage repayments, utility bills and costly allergy-friendly food are forcing families into food poverty. Wages now often don’t stretch far enough for children who snack, graze, and want feeding throughout the day.”

While a grant from West Berkshire Council is helping fund the scheme this year, rising demand and a 50% drop in donations mean a funding gap remains. The Foodbank is appealing to local parish councils and the public for financial support through the Greenham Trust Good Exchange platform.

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