A vital scheme providing school holiday activities and healthy meals for children in North Yorkshire is set to continue for at least another year, bringing welcome news to families across the region.
The Government has extended its Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme for 2025, meaning children and young people on benefits-related free school meals can once again enjoy free holiday activities. The county’s HAF programme, known as FEAST, is coordinated by North Yorkshire Together and commissioned by North Yorkshire Council through funding from the Department for Education.
The latest round of funding ensures that enriching activities and healthy meals will be provided throughout the Easter, summer, and Christmas school holidays this year. The programme supports children’s well-being by offering nutritious food, engaging activities, and opportunities to make new friends and develop social skills.
For families like the Moons in Skipton, the extension of the programme is a huge relief. Eight-year-old Taylor Moon, who has ADHD, benefits significantly from staying active during the holidays. Through FEAST, Taylor has been able to attend high-energy sports sessions at Kanga, a local activity provider.
Her mother, Julie Moon, said, “We’re a really active family, but when we can’t get out and about, it has a real knock-on effect on Taylor. At Kanga, she has the chance to move about, her brain can relax and it helps her process her internal feelings.”
North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for corporate services, Cllr Heather Phillips, said, “We are delighted that the Department for Education has extended the Holiday Activities and Food programme for another year. It is truly vital for those who need it most. FEAST is an essential resource ensuring that young people in North Yorkshire like Taylor can access enriching activities that support their development, health and happiness.”
Now in its fifth year, FEAST has provided over 100,000 free activities for children and young people. The programme is open to all, with free places available for those receiving benefits-related free school meals.
Julie Moon added, “Kanga in Skipton is perfect for Taylor, as she really loves sport. Unfortunately, I cannot afford the sessions, but thanks to the FEAST vouchers, I can book a place for her during the holidays.”
Max May, strategic director of FEAST, said, “We believe that every child should have the opportunity to enjoy the holidays, stay active, and connect with others in a safe and supportive environment. Taylor’s story is just one example of how FEAST is helping young people to thrive—not just during the holidays, but in the long term.”
Available to children aged five to 16, the HAF programme offers physical activities, arts and crafts, interactive experiences, and nutritious meals. With sessions delivered at more than 50 locations across the county, North Yorkshire Council’s executive member for children and families, Cllr Janet Sanderson, is encouraging eligible families to take advantage of the opportunities on offer.
She said, “Since its inception, the HAF programme has been a lifeline for families across North Yorkshire, ensuring that children have access to healthy food and engaging activities while also easing financial pressures on parents and carers during the holidays. The programme is delivered at more than 50 different locations across the county, making it easily accessible for families and therefore I would encourage everyone who is eligible to make the most of the fun sessions.”
For more information and to book places, visit www.northyorkshiretogether.co.uk/FEAST.
