Milton Keynes Council is launching a new scheme to help local organisations put on free or low cost after-school clubs and meals for children.
Organisations who set up ‘Homework Plus Clubs’ will be able to apply for a one-off grant of £1,000 from Milton Keynes Council.
To qualify for the grant, the clubs must be free or low cost and open to all children in Milton Keynes.
The clubs must also provide support with homework including internet acces and organisers should offer a substantial meal.
Cllr Jane Carr, Cabinet Member for Child Poverty, said: “We hope this funding will enable more local organisations to consider starting or perhaps re-starting an after-school club. We know how disruptive the past couple of years have been for children, both socially and academically. Homework Plus Clubs will provide a safe, quiet place for children and young people to study, socialise and enjoy a healthy meal.”
Last year, the Council’s Poverty Commission found almost 23,000 children were living in poverty in Milton Keynes.
The Council is working with local partners on a range of initiatives to challenge child poverty, including a childcare deposit scheme to support parents and carers who want to work, but who struggle with upfront childcare costs, a low-cost school uniform scheme. The council is also working with partners SOFEA, Community Fridge and Foodbank Xtra on community food larders.
Applications should be sent to HAF@milton-keynes.gov.uk by 11th March 2022.
More information can be found here.
