Houghton deli offering free meals to children during half term

Earlier this week, a Labour motion calling for the free meals scheme to be extended over school holidays until Easter 2021 was defeated by 261 votes to 322 in the Commons – with five Conservative MPs rebelling to vote with the Opposition.

Now Deli-cious, in Fence Houses, is offering free children’s meals to struggling families during half term to collect between 11am and 12pm from Monday to Friday.

Emma Ebdon, who owns the deli with mum Stephanie Ellison, said: “I just felt it was disappointing that the Government voted against free meals during half term.

"I think there’s a lot of families in the area that benefit from it and we don’t want any child to go hungry.”

The meals – which include hot food and sandwiches – will be available to all those in need and can be pre-ordered by calling 0191 340 8060.

Stephanie said: “Potentially children will go hungry next week or parents will skip meals to put their children first.

"With our help in the community this could be prevented.

"In the current times, a lot of people are out of work or had their hours cut through no fault of their own.

"We don’t want any one to feel ashamed and no questions will be asked.”

The pair are also making fresh sandwiches daily and helping provide supplies for Fencehouses community centre and Kind Community Support Donation group.

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