Sheffield pub helps to ensure children don't go hungry

The Handsworth Inn on Handsworth Road stepped in to support disadvantaged children after MPs voted against funding free school meals during half term.

Stevie and Amber Barstow, operators of the Craft Union pub, posted about their initiative on Facebook and soon had more than 2,000 shares.

Manchester United star Marcus Rashford, who spearheaded the summer’s campaign for free school meals, commended them on Twitter.

The duo’s endeavour has now expanded to include food parcels for whole families for the half-term week as donations flooded in.

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Amber said: “We have been so overwhelmed and humbled by the amazing support we have received from our community and beyond and I am delighted that we can turn this awareness into real help for the people who need it the most.

“We’ll be prioritising those who are eligible for free school meals, but we want to help anyone and everyone who needs it, so we want to encourage people to get in touch and let us know if they need support. No-one, especially children, should ever go hungry.”

The pub has been handing out food parcels in the car park all this week.​​​​​​​

Businesses in two Peak District villages have also stepped in to help.Stella’s Kitchen in Eyam, which specialises in African Caribbean cuisine, has offered children a free takeaway lunch.

Hathersage women’s clothing supplier Lucy Locket Loves has teamed up with Hathersage Bakery to offer free packed lunches.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.