Cllr Catherine Gibbons, the authority s executive member for children s services, said: “We believe no child should go hungry during term time or the school holidays and the extra vouchers we are providing in February will ensure all children will have meals during the half-term week. There is plenty of money still available under this grant scheme and we want to make sure it goes to those families and individuals in North Somerset who really need it. We don t want to have to give it back to the Government.
“Many are struggling with the economic impact of coronavirus and will continue to do so while the pandemic remains with us. This money is there to help the hardest hit families and individuals over the winter period. If you re struggling to provide meals for your children or pay the heating bills, we can help.
Subsequent vouchers will also be provided to support children and families during next year’s February school holidays.
“As well as school children, the voucher scheme is also available to children in preschool and care leavers.”
Additional support is also available through the North Somerset Council Welfare Provision Scheme.
This can provide people with financial support for essentials such as utility bills, bedding, furniture, white goods, clothing, footwear, food and toiletries.
Those eligible for funding can make a claim if they are in a temporary financial crisis, in receipt of child benefit for a child aged 16 years or over, a North Somerset resident and are in receipt of a qualifying benefit or waiting to hear about a claim for a qualifying benefit.
Published:
4:00 PM December 15, 2020
North Somerset Council has announced a £500k fund is available to support those most impacted by pandemic.
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People in North Somerset who are in financial crisis due to the coronavirus pandemic are being urged to apply for a share of council funding worth £500,000.
In November, the Government agreed a £400m winter grants scheme to support children, their families and individuals experiencing financial difficulties to help those most in need during the colder months.
North Somerset Council.
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Of this, £170m is to be distributed through councils, with at least 80 per cent earmarked to help people with food and utility bills.