Halal restaurants help vulnerable after Gov free school meal snub

Credit: Maryam’s Kitchen; Manjaro’s Middlesborough; Babul’s; Fare Share UK

We don’t want to see any child go hungry, therefore we are pledging 1500 healthy meals for all children within our community. – Babul’s

Halal restaurants have responded by offering free meals to the vulnerable following the defeat of a parliamentary motion to extend free school meals over the holidays.

Babul’s, Manjaro’s, and Maryam’s Kitchen have vowed to help struggling families as part of a campaign that is being championed by Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford.

The England Forward has been calling on people to support vulnerable children across the country after Labour’s motion was defeated by the Government on Wednesday by a majority of 61.

Going by the motto: “Let’s get through this together”, Babul’s in Teesdale immediately restarted their #FeedTheCommunity mission, which allowed them to distribute some 7000 meals during the first lockdown.

“In response to the Government’s refusal to provide free school meals during half term. We don’t want to see any child go hungry, therefore we are pledging 1500 healthy meals for all children within our community.

“We will be preparing 100 meals everyday for the next 15 days and will be available to collect everyday from our stand in the bar areas between 4pm-5pm,” the Indian restaurant said.

Located in the popular tourist town of Barnard Castle, they added: “Please don’t feel embarrassed to take these meals, we want to make sure these meals are used. Please feel free to come in and take what you need for your children no questions asked [call them on 01833630575].”

Manjaro’s announced yesterday: “In response to the latest news regarding the government’s negative action on Marcus Rashford’s plea for help, Manjaro’s are offering free essentials for any family living in the Middlesbrough area requiring help during next weeks school holidays.”

The African and Caribbean franchise also reminded vulnerable families: “Don’t be afraid or embarrassed to send us a private message. We will do what we can to help. It may simply be a case of dropping off a parcel and leaving. No one has to know and where others are concerned, it never happened.”

Meanwhile, Maryam’s Kitchen in Ealing, west London, will be “offering FREE HOT LUNCHES to children who are entitled to free school meals”.

The small family-run cafe said: “We are deeply saddened by the food poverty many are facing currently, and we are especially concerned that the school holidays will add additional stresses to households already facing hardship.”

Owner Maryam, who is funding this project herself, further assured: “This service is completely confidential and discretionary but you must place an order with us beforehand (ideally no later than the day before) via [email protected], or contact us through our usual channels of communication.”