In Middlesbrough, local churches are offering hope to local families by providing fun activities in a safe place for children with some healthy food.

For many families the summer holidays are a struggle with the children at home 24/7 and no free school meals, so the weekly budget has to stretch further for food and there is little left for activities and treats. Last summer Middlesbrough Foodbank saw a huge increase in demand for support for families and Safe Families For Children also had a big rise in referrals as vulnerable families struggled to cope.

This year, seven churches are offering holiday activities across the town as part of Hope 4 Summer, with something happening every week of the school holidays in at least one location. Each church will be promoting their activities in their local schools and communities, and Safe Families For Children will be able to refer families to the project. Middlesbrough Foodbank is helping with providing non-perishable food and drinks items for healthy snacks and packed lunches.

For more information, click here, or listen to Heather Black of Together Middlesbrough speaking about Hope 4 Summer on BBC Radio Tees here, beginning at 2 hours and 11 mins.