Hundreds of kids to eat free this Summer as YMCA Cheltenham tackles holiday hunger

20th July 2026, Cheltenham: Local charity, YMCA Cheltenham will feed more than 120 children this summer by hosting a series of free family-focused events across Cheltenham to support households facing food poverty over the school holidays. 

In July last year, food charity, The Felix Project estimated that up to 675,000 school-aged children in England experienced holiday hunger during the summer break.  

In Gloucestershire, over 40,000 children live in poverty and more than 16,000 children receive free school meals. 18% of children in Cheltenham experience very low food security and 17% in Gloucester, highlighting the significant challenges many families in the county face in accessing enough nutritious food.  

In response, YMCA Cheltenham - one of the oldest YMCAs in the world – is expanding its summer holiday provision to ensure local children have access to nutritious meals, activities and community support throughout the break. 

Between 10.30am and 2pm on 22 and 29 July, and 12 August, children up to aged 11, along with their carers, are welcome at the charity’s ‘Play in the Park’ event at the King George V Playing Field, Cheltenham. Funded through Gloucestershire County Council’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, the charity expects at least 40 children to attend per session where they can enjoy a packed lunch full of nutritious food after a morning of activities led by Youth For Christ and Sportily. These include football, badminton and arts and crafts, before Gloucestershire Libraries hosts a story time session to round off the event. 

YMCA Cheltenham will also take part in ‘Party in the Park,’ on 5 August which last year saw Feed Cheltenham, in collaboration with The Jockey Club and SEWA Day, feed 950 children across Cheltenham. Hosted by Cheltenham Borough Council, the event ensures any child who needs food receives it, with YMCA Cheltenham providing sports and craft activities. 

Linda Grice, YMCA Cheltenham’s Connect Community Manager, says: “Play in the Park forms part of our wider Holiday Provision Programme whereby we will be running a series of safe and secure events over the summer. These will support families and children who struggle with the financial pressures that school holidays can bring, from childcare costs to providing a nutritious meal.  

“We offer carefully designed activities that strengthen family bonds and build community connections. The purpose of our programme is to make sure children and young people are entertained, active, educated, safe, and fed during the holidays.” 

Further YMCA Cheltenham events this summer include:- 

• ‘Stay and Play’ on 4 August 2026 10-11.30am at Hesters Way Baptist Church. A range of toys, games, and craft activities suitable for children of different ages, creating a fun and welcoming environment for families. Each child will receive a packed lunch with homemade cake for the adults. 

• Sports Activity at the YMCA Sports Centre on 13 August 2026, 2-5pm. Children aged 10-15 can take part in a range of activities including badminton, basketball, and football, led by YMCA Cheltenham Sports Centre staff followed by the fun of making their own pizza for tea.  

Grice added: “The summer break can be an isolating time for families in need affecting the whole family’s well-being. Providing inclusive and enjoyable opportunities means families can build social connections and ensure every child can access a rewarding holiday experience in a supportive and welcoming environment.  

“Through our Holiday Provision Programme, children and young people can enjoy new experiences, develop confidence, build friendships and create lasting memories that support their personal growth and development.” 

For further information and to book your place, contact linda.grice@cheltenhamymca.com.

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Editors notes

Notes to Editor  

Click HERE to view YMCA Cheltenham’s virtual newsroom, where you will find:   

• Images of previous HAF events and ‘Party in the Park’ 
• A copy of this news release  
• The YMCA Cheltenham logo  

For media enquiries, please contact:   

 Emily Goold or Verity Blake at HeadOn PR:   

T: 07502 438 842   

E: ymcacheltenham@headonpr.co.uk  

About YMCA Cheltenham:  

YMCA Cheltenham’s supports people and communities across Gloucestershire, with a mission to enable people to develop their full potential in mind, body, and spirit.  

Rooted in Christian values, the charity is committed to creating supportive, inclusive, and energising communities – places where families and individuals of all backgrounds can truly belong, contribute, and thrive.  

Whether it’s offering a safe home, providing family support services, promoting physical and mental wellbeing, and nurturing community spirit, YMCA Cheltenham exists to help individuals build strong foundations for a rewarding life. 

In 2025, the charity provided accommodation for 278 children and young people, housing 149 families who would otherwise have been homeless. 

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