THE Friends of Hardie Park in Stanford-le-Hope is working with several local primary schools in the area to provide free weekend hot meals for families in need over the Christmas break.

Thurrock Council recently confirmed they will ensure families get meals on weekdays, and now the Friends have stepped up to fill the gap.

The initiative is being supported by local port DP World London Gateway and the Friends, the charity that runs the park, is inviting other local companies to join in the sponsorship.

A statement from the Friends says: "Following on from our Free School Meals back in October half term we are piloting a scheme to fill the gap for families by offering a hot takeaway meal for children at weekends.

"We are encouraging local companies to come on board too, to tackle this issue as a community, not just for Christmas but into the New Year. By expanding the network of help we aim to develop a sustainable plan for 2021.

"If you are a local business wanting to get involved by donating product or funds to help us facilitate and deliver the idea, we would love to have you on board. Tackling this issue as a community is the wider goal.

"Anyone can offer help to fund the scheme. If you would like to help out and 'Buy a Meal' this Christmas you can use PAYPAL to donate £2.50. The funds will be ring fenced for the Free Weekend Hot Meals initiative which will be extended further into the New Year.

"Want to support the scheme and donate? Sign in to your Paypal account and send your donation to [email protected] using reference HOT MEALS."

Contact details for Hardie Park: