Listen Live

Food boxes for Devon families

School lunch (courtesy: North Devon District Council/ LDRS)

Fresh produce for people with small children

Devon families with young children can receive free fresh food this autumn as part of a new government scheme.

The “Get a healthy start” box has fruit and veg, plus tips on how to swap or add food, like meat and fish, to prevent food waste.

The scheme is open to families with children under four years old, or an expectant mother. The packs also have vouchers for milk, tinned food and baby formula.

Recent research shows around a third of Devon families are experiencing food insecurity, but only around half are current signed up to the scheme.

Councillor Roger Croad, a Devon County cabinet member, said: “Worrying about money can have a real impact on someone’s physical and mental health, and make it difficult for families to eat healthily, so it's important they are aware of what support is available to them so they can access it.

“These boxes are designed to highlight the healthy start scheme and the upcoming changes to make sure eligible families can access what they are entitled to and ensure families do not miss out.

To order a box online, visit https://devon.cc/getahealthystart

 

 

More from Local News

Listen Live
On Air Now Through The Evening Playing I Swear All-4-One