Borehamwood families are being urged to take part in a scheme which ensures no child goes hungry during the school holidays.

A collaborative project aims to identify hundreds of children and families in need of additional nutritious food over the next month or so, including children eligible for free school meals.

There is a specific focus to help those living in Cowley Hill, recognised by the Indices of Multiple Deprivation as the most deprived area in Hertfordshire, but anyone living in Borehamwood and the surrounding villages can be supported by this scheme.

Among those involved in this scheme are Gratitude, a charity founded by Borehamwood couple Sheila and John Carlisle, which supplies leftover food from supermarkets and other shops to those in need.

Gratitude, which has been supporting hundreds of people over the Covid-19 pandemic, is responsible for distributing the fresh, vegetarian meals.

Borehamwood Times:

The meals are cooked by Compassion London at Alexandra Palace in north London.

Compassion London is run by a group of volunteer professional chefs, foodies, accountants, parents and young people who have all come together to cook and deliver nutritious meals for those who need them the most.

Led by Borehamwood councillor Meenal Sachdev, Hertsmere Borough Council is helping to identify the needs of the town's families and their children, along with schools and parent networks.

The team is hoping to be delivering 1,000 midday meals by the beginning of August, after beginning last week.

The scheme, which is funded by the GMSP Foundation - founded by Ramesh and Pratibha Sachdev - began on July 22 and will run until September 1.

Cllr Sachdev said: "Partnership working is something I really believe in when it comes to finding solutions to the challenges we face in the world today.

"I am proud to be collaborating with our partners on this summer project to reach and serve our local people."

To be supported by this scheme or to volunteer in this scheme, email gratitudemealsonwheels@gmail.com