Ashfield District Council is urging residents and organisations to take part in its Take A Tin initiative after it announced its support for international footballer Marcus Rashford’s campaign to provide free school meals to youngsters during school holidays.

The council said: “Despite the government’s refusal to provide funds (for the footballer’s campaign), we want to make sure that no child in Ashfield goes hungry.

“The council works closely with foodbanks across the district and we have provided over £15,000 in funding during the pandemic to help feed those most in need.

“Our support will continue, and residents can also help by donating to their local foodbanks.”

The Take a Tin campaign is encouraging local organisations to get involved and collect tinned food for donation to the following foodbanks:
• Engage Under One Roof, Hucknall
• Kirkby Community Storehouse
• Let’s All Eat, Sutton

If you would like to get involved in the Take a Tin campaign contact [email protected]

In Mansfield there has been support for helping families on low income during the rest of the half-term school holiday from Toothill Lane business Not Just Desserts, which is offering free lunches to those families next week.

It posted on Facebook: “During the school holidays I’ll be offering free lunches to families on low income. As a single mum to four kids I know how difficult things can get and times are hard at the minute, so we all need to do our bit to help out.

“Next week I’ll be making packed lunches for anyone who needs them, no judgment here. If you, or someone you know, is in need please send us a message and collection can be arranged.

“Thanks to The Social Action Hub, who will be donating bread from their Foodshare scheme.

“Ground Zero Comics are kindly donating some lovely comics to add an extra holiday treat and Lindylou Macarons is dropping homemade Halloween cookies off to add to the lunches.”