Legacy Youth Zone Croydon is taking steps to address the cost-of-living crisis by offering free hot meals to young people attending their centre over the winter period. This initiative has been made possible thanks to funding from the charity Ajaz.org, ICG and Mistral.
Young people attending weeknight or weekend sessions at the Youth Zone will be offered a free hot meal from the café, with an estimated of 600 young people benefiting each week. The Generation Isolation report by the youth charity OnSide revealed that over one in four young people had stopped taking part in activities or hobbies due to the cost of living, with 69% expressing concern over the crisis.
Myke Catterall, Chief Operating Officer of Legacy Youth Zone Croydon, said: “Here in Croydon, we understand how difficult it is for families to get the help that they need. This is heightened in the current cost of living crisis we are faced with. Which is why this offer will benefit so many families that need that extra support this winter!”
Nicola Brentnall, Chief Executive of Ajaz.org, added: “We know that far too many families are struggling through the cost-of-living crisis – with the Winter months an even bigger challenge. Through OnSide’s free hot meals, we can help lift some of the load from their shoulders.”
Antje Hensel-Roth, Chief People & External Affairs Officer of ICG, commented: “With the cost-of-living crisis increasing economic hardship for families, offerings like free meals have become all the more important. We are delighted to be supporting the OnSide Network with their mission of helping families throughout this crisis.”
Legacy Youth Zone Croydon is one of 14 Youth Zones operating across the country, and offers subsidised £1 hot meals to young people throughout the year. The additional support during the winter period will ensure free provision.
Legacy Youth Zone Croydon is a local charity supporting young people aged 8-19 and up to 25 with additional needs to take part in varied activities such as sport, art, music and cooking. It is open 6 days a week and provides access to support from trained youth workers.
