A youth centre in Croydon has announced plans to offer a free hot meal to young people affected by the cost-of-living crisis.
Legacy Youth Zone Croydon is offering free hot meals throughout winter to young people who participate in their weeknight or weekend sessions.
An estimated 600 young people are predicted to benefit from this initiative each week.
The cost-of-living crisis has been the source of anxiety for many families, especially during the Christmas period.
The issue has been highlighted in the recent "Generation Isolation" report by youth charity OnSide.
The report indicated that more than 25 per cent of young people have ceased participating in activities or hobbies due to the rise in living expenses and 69 per cent have expressed concerns about the crisis.
Legacy Youth Zone Croydon aims to alleviate some of this worry by providing these complimentary meals.
The initiative has been primarily funded by funding from Ajaz.org, a charitable organization founded by Ajaz Ahmed MBE to assist children and families facing difficulties.
Additional financial backing has been provided by ICG, a global alternative asset manager, and by Mistral.
Myke Catterall, Chief Operating Officer of Legacy Youth Zone, says this initiative will benefit so many families this winter (Image: Legacy Youth Zone)
The Chief Operating Officer of Legacy Youth Zone, Myke Catterall, stated: "Here in Croydon, we understand how difficult it is for families to get the help that they need.
"This is heightened in the current cost of living crisis we are faced with.
"Which is why this offer will benefit so many families that need that extra support this winter."
Legacy Youth Zone Croydon operates six days a week and offers affordable activities, including sports, art, music, and cooking.
Moreover, it also provides access to support from its trained team of youth workers.
Although Youth Zones offer subsidised £1 hot meals all year round, the additional funding means there will be free provision throughout the winter.
Nicola Brentnall, the Chief Executive of Ajaz.org, said: "We know that far too many families are struggling through the cost-of-living crisis – with the Winter months an even bigger challenge.
"Through OnSide’s free hot meals, we can help lift some of the load from their shoulders."
Antje Hensel-Roth, Chief People & External Affairs Officer of ICG added: "With the cost-of-living crisis increasing economic hardship for families, offerings like free meals have become all the more important.
"We are delighted to be supporting the OnSide Network with their mission of helping families throughout this crisis."
Legacy Youth Zone Croydon is one of 14 across the nation, all part of the nationwide OnSide Network of Youth Zones.
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