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Hackney Foodbank is urging anyone attending a party for the King’s coronation to help fund its holiday meals for schoolchildren.
The charity is also asking those organising street parties or lunches on the day of the ceremony on 6 May to collect donations.
Hackney Council’s offer of £750 grants to council tenants hosting coronation events went down badly with some residents this week.
Any money given to the Foodbank will be ringfenced for its holiday lunch clubs, designed to make sure children don’t go hungry without access to school meals.
The summer half-term runs from 29 May until 2 June.
The charity’s CEO, Pat Fitzsimons, said: “Just £10 can provide lunch for a child for five days during the holidays – for many of the families we support, that’s the difference between going hungry or not.
“It’s wonderful the public want the King’s coronation to go with a swing, but amidst all the pomp and ceremony, we ask that they also bear a thought for those in Hackney who are malnourished because the cost-of-living crisis has left them unable to afford even the basics.
“If you’re throwing a party or a coffee morning to mark the coronation this May, please ask your guests to bring along a contribution for Hackney Foodbank.”
The cost-of-living crisis has fuelled a huge spike in demand for the Foodbank’s services, but donations have dropped dramatically.
The demographic of visitors has changed too – with many of those seeking help described as “working poor”.
Hackney residents can apply to the council to close their roads so they can host street parties. Applications must be submitted at least four weeks in advance.
If you’re organising a coronation party and would like to support the Foodbank, you can email info@hackneyfoodbank.org to request artwork or logos to share with your guests.
To donate towards holiday lunches for children, visit donorbox.org/lunch-club-2023.
