For the past five years, the Anderton Centre has had the privilege of delivering the Holiday Activities & Food (HAF) Programme, a project that has touched the lives of over 1,500 young people in Bolton. Funded by Bolton Council and the Department for Education, this initiative has become a cornerstone of our mission to support children and families in our community, especially those most in need.
A Legacy of Support
Initially launched as a third-party community organisation, the Anderton Centre was later directly commissioned by Bolton Council to carry out the HAF Programme. Over the years, we have expanded our provision, growing from offering activities and meals solely during the summer holidays to now include the Christmas and winter breaks. This growth reflects the increasing need within our community and our commitment to meeting that need.
The HAF Programme has been instrumental in providing essential services to children who are eligible for free school meals. These young people have not only received a nutritious hot meal but also participated in four hours of engaging and enriching activities. For many, these experiences have been more than just a fun way to spend the holidays—they’ve been a lifeline during challenging times.
Responding to the Cost of Living Crisis
The importance of the HAF Programme has become even more pronounced in the face of the current cost of living crisis. Families across Bolton are feeling the squeeze, and for some, the Anderton Centre’s HAF Programme has provided much-needed relief. By offering both nourishment and a safe, supportive environment for young people, we’ve helped to ease the burden on families who are struggling to make ends meet.
The diversity of the groups that have participated in our programme has been truly remarkable. We’ve welcomed children from a wide range of backgrounds, including those who are often considered hard to reach. The inclusive nature of our programme has ensured that all young people, regardless of their circumstances, have had the opportunity to benefit from the HAF Programme.
Uncertain Future, Unwavering Commitment
As we look to the future, the continuation of the HAF Programme is uncertain. The recent changes in government have cast doubt on the future of this vital project. However, our commitment to the young people of Bolton remains as strong as ever. We truly hope that we will be able to continue providing this essential service next summer and beyond.
The Anderton Centre and our dedicated staff are incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made through the HAF Programme. We’ve seen firsthand how it has enriched the lives of young people, offering them not just a meal and a day of activities, but also a sense of belonging and support. This project has been a beacon of hope for many, and we are determined to do everything in our power to ensure its survival.
A Lasting Impact
The HAF Programme at the Anderton Centre has been more than just a series of activities and meals—it has been a lifeline for many young people in Bolton. The relationships built, the skills learned, and the memories made will have a lasting impact on these children’s lives. We’ve seen shy, withdrawn children grow in confidence, form friendships, and develop a love for outdoor activities. We’ve seen families who were struggling to put food on the table find a source of relief and support.
In these uncertain times, the future of the HAF Programme may be in question, but the need for it is not. We remain hopeful that with continued support from our funders and the community, we will be able to continue this vital work, ensuring that no child in Bolton goes without the support they need during the holidays.
Together, we can make sure that the Anderton Centre continues to be a place where young people can thrive, no matter what challenges they face.
