Food Bank Aid has launched its annual School’s Out, Food’s Out campaign to try to avert what the charity describes as a potential “summer of hunger” for children across London as schools close for the holidays.
Rising demand during school holidays
The charity supplies more than 30 partner food banks across London, supporting emergency food and essential items to an estimated 20,000 people a month, including almost 5,000 children. It says demand increases during the summer when families lose access to free school meals and face higher food and childcare costs.
A recent survey of Food Bank Aid’s partners showed that 86% had seen demand rise over the past year, and 90% expect further growth in 2026. Around half the partner food banks said they would struggle to continue operating without the charity’s support.
“For many children, school provides more than an education,”
The charity supplies more than 100 essential food and household items to help keep partner centres stocked during peak periods. Its appeal aims to raise funds so those supplies can be maintained throughout the school holidays.
Local impact and wider context
Poverty statistics cited by the charity underline the scale of need in the capital: one in three children in London live in poverty, rising to almost one in two in some boroughs served by Food Bank Aid. The consequences of inadequate nutrition in childhood are serious — affecting health, development and educational readiness.
- Who benefits: Over 20,000 people per month across Food Bank Aid’s network.
- Children affected: Almost 5,000 receive support from these food banks monthly.
- Charity warning: Many partner centres could struggle to remain open without additional funding.
| Measure | Figure |
|---|---|
| Partner food banks supported | 30+ |
| People helped per month | 20,000 |
| Children helped per month | ~5,000 |
| Partners reporting increased demand | 86% |
| Partners expecting further growth | 90% |
For families in Waltham Forest and neighbouring boroughs, the loss of free school meals during the long summer break can mean weeks without reliable access to nutritious food. The charity’s appeal is designed to keep foodbanks stocked with essentials and to prevent closures at a time when demand typically rises.
Local residents and organisations wishing to support the campaign should contact Food Bank Aid directly for details on donations and volunteer opportunities.
