We have loved supporting Martineau Gardens with their 'Wild Play at Martineau' playscheme this month, as part of the ‘Bring it on Brum!’ summer holiday activity provision.
Running from August 14th to 25th for up to 50 children in the immediate area who qualify for benefits-related free school meals alongside children who are living in temporary accommodation. Each day, these children will engage in nature, art, and play activities, and will have lunch provided every day.
At the end of each week, on Friday the 18th and 25th, Nathan Swift, Executive Chef at Chapter, will cook a healthy hot lunch for the children and their parents, catering for around 200 people over those two days. "This scheme provides vital outdoor space and activities to vulnerable children. By providing meals for children and their family we are supporting Martineau’s scheme in the most obvious way we can," says Nathan. He adds, "We are so impressed with Martineau Gardens - it’s been exciting to adopt them as our charity this year.’"
There is an overwhelming growth in demand for help to feed children during this summer’s school holidays. FareShare Midlands, the region’s largest food re-distribution charity, reports that demand is soaring. CEO Simone Connolly says, ‘During the long summer holidays, parents and carers can find themselves under increased pressure to feed and care for school children, leaving these children and their wider family network vulnerable. There is evidence of these children returning to school undernourished and underweight.’
Wild Play at Martineau will be run in conjunction with Birmingham Playcare Network and Bostin’ Creative Arts and Theatre. Juliette Green, Martineau Gardens Environmental Education Teacher says of the scheme, ‘We are delighted to be able to offer this programme of outdoor play, craft, and nature activities to some of our most in-need local families. With the rise of children in receipt of free school meals, it’s a brilliant opportunity to also be able to offer good quality, nutritional meals, finishing with a fantastic lunch celebration with Chapter at the end of each week.’
To support Martineau Gardens visit Support Us – Martineau Gardens (martineau-gardens.org.uk) and Fare Share Donate | FareShare Midlands | Fighting hunger, tackling food waste in the UK
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