Supporting Hackney: The Happy and Healthy Trust

Child food poverty and homelessness are deeply interconnected issues, with housing instability often exacerbating food insecurity among children. Recent data from The Food Foundation indicates that approximately 400,000 children in London experience food insecurity – a staggering figure that represents over 25% of all children in the capital. Families residing in temporary accommodation are particularly affected, as they face additional barriers like limited access to cooking facilities and higher costs of ready meals.

Over 65,000 families in London reside in temporary or emergency accommodation, with almost 90,000 children among them, reports Trust for London. These children are more likely to skip meals or rely on inadequate nutrition due to the instability of their living situation. Reports indicate that children in temporary accommodation are twice as likely to experience hunger compared to their peers in stable housing.

To address this critical connection, we have partnered with The Happy and Healthy Trust in Hackney, East London. Our grant has been used to support their ‘Toast Together’ programme, which provides nutritious breakfast for fathers and sons living in temporary or emergency accommodation. The funding contributed to a purchase of breakfast supplies and enabled the programme to run 6 days a week, offering not just nourishment but also a safe and supportive space for families.

One of the participants said: “This programme has given me and my son something to look forward to every morning. It’s more than just a meal – it’s our time to talk and connect. Things have been tough, but this routine has brought a bit of normalcy back into our lives.”

The Happy and Healthy Trust said: “The programme has had a significant positive impact on families, addressing both physical and emotional needs. By offering nutritious breakfasts, we’ve improved the physical health of the participants, particularly children, who previously skipped meals. The family time during the breakfasts has fostered improved communication and stronger relationships, which are critical in challenging living conditions. The consistent scheduled has provided stability and helped reduce isolation and stress.”

Every child deserves a breakfast and no one should go hungry. We are delighted to have been able to support this community project.

If you’d like to help us support similar projects, DONATE TODAY!

Every penny donated goes directly into helping those in need. 🙏💙

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