The Children’s Rights Alliance has expressed deep concern about the widespread food poverty affecting every community in Ireland. Chief Executive Tanya Ward emphasised the unjustifiability of young children lacking access to essential, nutritious food for their health and well-being. The Alliance highlighted the plight of families who, due to financial constraints, resort to wearing a dressing gown to stay warm at home.
The Children’s Rights Alliance highlighted the significance of school meal programmes in alleviating food poverty but noted their closure during the Christmas period. Ms. Ward urged the government to extend support beyond the school year, emphasising the increasing impact on working families who face difficult decisions between putting food on the table or paying bills.
The oversubscribed food provision scheme underscores the urgent need for resources to meet the demand. Ms. Ward called for a comprehensive government intervention during holiday periods to ensure that no children go hungry. Organisations like the Daughters of Charity and Women’s Refuge and Support Services are stepping in to provide food vouchers, hampers, and support to families facing financial difficulties, particularly during the Christmas season.
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