Thousands of young people in Middlesbrough are set for a festive season packed with free activities, experiences, and nutritious food, as a popular holiday scheme returns.
Festive Fun and Nourishment for Local Families
The Bring It On Boro programme has been confirmed to run throughout the Christmas school holidays, from Saturday, December 20 to Sunday, January 4. Children and young people aged between five and 16 will have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of festive activities.
These include classic Christmas pantomime trips, visits to Santa's grotto, and creative craft sessions. The offer also extends to various sports, such as football, cheerleading, and boxing. Crucially, every child who attends will receive a healthy meal at each session.
Building on a Successful Foundation
The scheme, which is run jointly by Middlesbrough Council and Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, is funded through the government's Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme. Its continuation this winter follows a successful pilot during the October half-term, made possible by a £250,000 grant from the Middlesbrough Priorities Fund.
Middlesbrough Mayor, Chris Cooke, who leads the fund, has made supporting the town's children and young people a key council priority. He expressed his delight at securing the programme for every school holiday, emphasising its special importance during the festive period.
"Bring It On Boro has already provided thousands of children with unique experiences and a safe place to go during the school holidays," Mayor Cooke said. "I know how important it is for every child to have somewhere safe to go, something fun to do and a warm, healthy meal."
How to Access the Christmas Programme
Families whose children receive benefit-related free school meals and meet the Department for Education's eligibility criteria can book their places online now. The council has also highlighted that thousands of children who did not meet the strict government criteria have previously benefited.
For families with children who do not receive free school meals but would like them to participate, the council has provided alternative contact methods. They can call 01642 728888 or email holidayfoodandactivities@middlesbrough.gov.uk to enquire.
Looking ahead, the council has committed to running the Bring It On Boro scheme during all major school breaks, including the February and May half terms, as well as the Easter and summer holidays.
