'We can make a difference to the lives of thousands of children' - Tesco Tavistock takes bold action to fight holiday hunger for local families

Tesco’s Tavistock Superstore is stepping up support for families struggling to afford meals during the school holidays as part of its Stronger Starts programme.

The initiative aims to assist children who usually receive free school meals during term time but may miss out during the summer break.

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Research from Trussell shows that last summer, nearly a third of families with children sometimes or often struggled to afford balanced meals. Meanwhile, one in four children under five are at risk of needing a food bank.

Tesco’s own research found that one in 12 parents reported their children having missed meals in the past due to financial difficulties, a problem partially eased during term time by free school meals.

Between 21 July and 30 August, Tesco Tavistock will sell pre-packed food donation bags costing between £2 and £3.

These bags contain healthy, long-life items and will be donated directly to FareShare and Trussell charities, who distribute food to those in need through local food banks and community groups.

From 25 to 31 August, shoppers in store can round up their bill to the nearest pound, with proceeds split between FareShare and Trussell. Online shoppers will also be able to make donations during checkout.

Last year, Tesco customers raised over £500,000 through similar efforts.

Families shopping at Tesco Tavistock will also benefit from the Kids Eat Free scheme in the store’s cafés throughout the summer holidays.

When adults purchase any item costing 60p or more and show their Clubcard or Clubcard App, children can get a free Kids Hot Meal Deal, Kids Breakfast, or Kids Pick ‘n’ Mix deal.

Claire De Silva, Head of Communities at Tesco, said: “Too often, families with too little support during the holidays worry about their children’s physical and mental health, particularly if they’re not getting the good food every child deserves.

“If we all pull together over the summer, whether that’s popping a few tins into a food collection point, picking up a food donation bag in our stores or rounding up our grocery bill, we can make a difference to the lives of thousands of children, who, without support, could have a tough summer holiday.”

Emma Revie, CEO of Trussell Trust, added: “We are extremely grateful to our partner Tesco and excited for this year’s in-store summer activities, making it easier for people to support their local food bank throughout the holidays.

“It’s not right that so many families with children can’t afford to eat balanced meals. Our community of food banks distributed more than 1 million parcels for children last year, illustrating the unacceptable levels of hardship so many families are currently facing.”

Kris Gibbon-Walsh, CEO at FareShare, said: “During the school holidays, families face financial pressures as they juggle the cost of childcare and food, turning to their local community and charities for support.

“The food we provide doesn’t just feed people; it provides a gateway to other services and activities that help children play, have fun, and make friends this summer.

“That’s why the donation bags in Tesco stores are vital. Any Tesco shoppers who can donate an item or two to FareShare will be making a big difference to children and families this summer.”