Kids across North Ayrshire will not go hungry or be subject to 'degrading' food packs during the extended lockdown.
That's the message from council leader Joe Cullinane today.
North Ayrshire Council has greenlit a voucher system which will entitle each eligible child to £40 per fortnight – £4 per day – from January 18 to February 1.
Previously, fresh food parcels were delivered to the homes of those who had their means-tested application approved.
However, the voucher system is hoped to give families the flexibility to purchase foods that they know their children will eat and enjoy.
The move follows reports of meagre food parcels being sent to children in England delivered by a contractor on behalf of schools.
A mother posted a photo on social media showing a food pack delivery of two carrots, two potatoes, a tin of baked bins, one tomato, a loaf of bread a couple of other small items.
Councillor Cullinane posted the announcement of the North Ayrshire voucher system on Facebook.
He said: "There will be no outsourced, degrading food packs with half-cut vegetables provided by North Ayrshire Council to replace free school meals whilst schools are closed!
"Vouchers providing £4 per day have now been issued to cover the next few weeks."
