Food support for children during school holidays

Essex ActivAte

Essex ActivAte is a holiday activity and food programme across Essex, run by Active Essex, Essex County Council and Thurrock Council, on behalf of the Department for Education.

Active Essex run free face-to-face clubs during the school holidays for primary and secondary aged children and young people (5-16 year olds), who are eligible for benefits-based free school meals. The clubs are also intended for low income working families who would benefit from this extra support.

Essex ActivAte extend this support to children and young people who may be vulnerable to inactivity or social isolation on a case by case basis. Please speak to the club provider to discuss if this is an option.

Each Essex ActivAte club delivers a variety of fun physical and enrichment activities, food education, as well as a nutritious meal. Alongside this you can access family support and fun activities to keep children active and entertained at home.

You can find your local club and book a place in a club in either Colchester or Tendring on Active Essex's website. 

Book to join an Essex ActivAte Club