Why holiday meal money for cash-strapped parents is back on the menu
The school holiday food grant was axed by the Department of Education in 2023 due to a lack of money.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"When schools close for extended holiday periods, that support disappears, and families already struggling with the cost-of-living face even greater pressure."
— Aine Leslie , Academic
"I believe that additional support during the holidays would undoubtedly be warmly received by some of those who are already finding it difficult to cope."
— David Thompson , Academic
Key People
Principal at Malone Integrated College advocating for holiday meal payments.
An assembly member for Sinn Féin who introduced a bill for reinstating holiday food payments.
Principal at Dungannon Primary School advocating for support for vulnerable families.
Former Permanent Secretary in the Department of Education discussing funding cuts.
Locations
Tags
All Coverage
The school holiday food grant was axed by the Department of Education in 2023 due to a lack of money.
The article discusses the reintroduction of holiday meal payments for families of children eligible for free school meals, following the Department of Education's decision to cut the program in 2023 due to financial constraints.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
'You have to say no': Families struggling with holiday food costs
Susan Lilley, a single mother of two, said the weekly shop has become one of her biggest financial worries.
July 7, 2026 at 11:08 PMWill Trump Accounts deliver for American children?
The White House has hailed the project as giving new generations a stake in the American dream, but the scheme has its critics.
July 11, 2026 at 07:41 AMRemoving tax from food could cost £14m - minister
Treasury says a GST removal from essential grocery items would mostly benefit the richest islanders.
July 14, 2026 at 09:25 AMParent cooking classes 'built my confidence'
New cooking scheme aims to help parents learn healthy recipes which are convenient to make.
July 14, 2026 at 05:18 AM'I don't want to seem tight': How much should you give to the year-end teacher collection?
Collecting money for a joint present might overcome the competitive gift-giving, but it can still cause friction.
July 13, 2026 at 11:02 PMPop-up free school uniform and prom dress stall
People are being encouraged to donate, swap or take items they need for free.
July 14, 2026 at 05:31 AM