Project keeps children fit and fed during the holidays

More than 300 children across Newport were provided with access to healthy meals, sports and other activities this half term.

Fit and Fed is a collaborative approach by partners to provide children with breakfast, lunch and snacks, and allow them to take part in sports and other activities during the holidays.

Newport Live and Newport City Council’s Resilient Communities Team run nine sessions across Newport during the school holidays which are hosted by local community organisations.

The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gwent contributes funding to the project through Positive Futures, and funding is also provided by Newport City Homes, Melin Homes and other partners.

Patrica Moore, volunteer at the Hope Centre in Somerton which hosts one of the schemes said: “I think this project is absolutely amazing, particularly when parents are working. Their children can come here, be safe, have their breakfast, lunch and plenty of entertainment. We look after them and hopefully they have some fun.”

Leigh Williams, Senior Sport and Physical Activity Officer for Newport Live, said: “The partnership approach to delivering Fit and Fed within Newport has been running for two years and as a collective we like to think we are making a difference to the young people and families that access the opportunity in their local communities.

“Collaboration is key and looking forward to catching up with the stakeholders after this week and getting ready for a busy summer delivering Fit and Fed. If anyone would like to help and get involved please let me know as the more the merrier.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Jeff Cuthbert said: “Fit and Fed is a fantastic project that gives children an opportunity to channel their energy into sports and other positive activities during the summer holidays.

“It helps keep them away from crime and antisocial behaviour, and also helps families who struggle with the extra food costs during the holidays.”