Haringey (Parliament Politics Magazine) – The Minister for Early Years has applauded Haringey’s Holiday Activities and Food Programme for supporting children during school holidays.
At Duke’s Aldridge Academy, the Minister for Early Years paid a visit to Tottenham Hotspur’s HAF Club, where he observed football matches, flag football, and training exercises conducted by young coaches from the Spurred 2 Coach program.
The Minister also took a tour of the facility during the visit, interacting with the young guests and staff.
The special event emphasized the HAF program’s critical role and showed the potent results that can be obtained when community organizations and local stakeholders work together.
Cllr Zena Brabazon, Cabinet Member for Children, Schools and Families, said:
“It was a pleasure to showcase the incredible work happening on the ground. We are delighted to welcome the Minister to witness our HAF programme for himself and to see the benefit to young people.
Partnering with the Foundation and our wider network of stakeholders has been absolutely vital in delivering the highest standard of support to our community – offering inclusive, top-quality activities and meals that make a real difference.
This programme is about engaging children and young people, giving them space to thrive, stay active, build friendships, and enjoy nutritious food.
Today’s visit was a powerful reminder of the impact we’re making, and I’m proud of the partnership that’s helping our young people flourish.”
26 providers in Haringey have received almost £500,000, and the project provides about 1,175 activity places per day. Before the summer even started, many classes were completely booked due to the overwhelming demand.
Over the course of four weeks, the Tottenham Hotspur Foundation has also been instrumental, greeting 60 children every day. About 200 families, many of whom might not otherwise have access to such opportunities, have benefited from the club’s secure and engaging atmosphere, which offers everything from football and athletics to arts and crafts.
Haringey’s HAF program, which gives every kid the opportunity to play, learn, and thrive, is a potent example of the positive effects of inclusive, community-driven programs as the summer heat builds.
How did the Minister for Early Years praise Haringey’s HAF Programme?
The Minister for Early Years praised Haringey’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme by highlighting its significant positive impact on children and families.
The Minister commended the programme for providing free healthy meals alongside enriching activities during school holidays, which helps address holiday hunger and supports the health, wellbeing, and development of children from low-income families.
The Minister specifically noted that initiatives like HAF play a vital role in leveling the playing field for disadvantaged children by offering consistent support outside the school term. This recognition underscores the programme’s effectiveness in combating food insecurity, reducing social isolation, and providing opportunities for physical activity and learning in a stigma-free environment.