The Greggs Foundation has reached a significant milestone by opening its 1,000th Breakfast Club, 25 years after the first club launched in 1999 at West Walker Primary School, Newcastle. This marks a major achievement, with the Foundation having provided over 90 million breakfasts to children across the UK since its inception. The 1,000th Breakfast Club, located at Vauxhall Primary School in South West London, now serves part of the 75,000 children who benefit from a free, nutritious breakfast every school day.
Joe Swash Joins Celebration at Vauxhall Primary School
To celebrate the opening, TV personality and family chef Joe Swash made a surprise appearance at Vauxhall Primary School. Swash joined the children during their morning Breakfast Club, adding a fun element to their routine. Commenting on the experience, Swash said, “Having kids myself of varying ages, I see firsthand how important it is for young people to get a good start to their day. Visiting the Greggs Foundation Breakfast Club at Vauxhall Primary School has been an absolute privilege. It was amazing to see such a positive and fun environment for the pupils to enjoy before they headed into lessons, all with their tummies full.”
Breakfast Clubs Needed Now More Than Ever
The milestone comes at a time when the cost of living crisis is affecting families across the UK. Recent research from the Greggs Foundation reveals that 4.3 million parents of children aged 4 to 11 are struggling to afford nutritious meals. Nearly a third (32%) of parents with primary school-aged children are more likely to use a food bank compared to last year, while over four in five (82%) are concerned about how winter costs will impact their disposable income.
Government Promises Support for State-Funded Breakfast Clubs
In light of the growing need for support, the Government has pledged to introduce state-funded Breakfast Clubs across the country. However, Greggs continues to expand its own offerings. Richard Hutton, Chief Financial Officer and Trustee of the Greggs Foundation, emphasised the ongoing need for these services: “Our research shows that parents continue to find the increase in the cost of living challenging. The Government’s promise to support state-funded Breakfast Clubs recognises the positive impact our programme has had over the past 25 years, but there is still more to be done to support families.”
Hutton also highlighted plans to expand support beyond breakfast, including after-school clubs and holiday clubs. These initiatives are a response to requests from schools for additional help throughout the day.
The Impact of Breakfast Clubs on Children and Families
Greggs Breakfast Clubs have had a profound impact on children and their families. Nearly half (48%) of parents who send their children to these clubs say their kids benefit from socialising with others, while over a third (39%) note that their children are more engaged at school. Additionally, two in five parents (40%) report that the clubs provide much-needed childcare, allowing them to attend work.
How You Can Help
You can support the Greggs Foundation’s Breakfast Clubs by donating a breakfast for just 25p at any Greggs shop throughout the year. Greggs donates 1% of its pre-tax profits to the Foundation annually, and in 2023 alone, customers contributed over £650,000 through donations. Every 5p from the sale of a Jammy Heart biscuit also goes towards supporting the Foundation.
For more information on how to donate or to learn more about the Greggs Foundation’s Breakfast Clubs and their wider community initiatives, visit the Greggs Foundation.
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