Food voucher scheme launched for adult college learners

A new support project for students at Southend Adult Community College will see free food and drink made available for any student that may be struggling during the pandemic.

The ‘T4U’ scheme will allow any students, members of the public, staff or businesses to buy a drink, snack, sandwich or hot meal for someone in need whilst purchasing their own in the college’s café. The additional purchase will then be listed on a post-it note and placed on the ‘T4U’ board. These notes will act as vouchers for any student at the college in need to use whilst they’re studying at the college.

The project was thought up by a member of the colleges’ Learner Services Team, Alex Cox, and was launched today (Monday 2 November), at an event attended by The Worshipful The Mayor, Cllr John Lamb.

Cllr Anne Jones, cabinet member for children and learning, said: “Throughout this year, we have seen the true spirit of the public, with various groups and organisations pulling together to help provide food and other support for those who may be struggling due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

“The T4U scheme is yet another example of the selfless commitment Southend residents have to supporting our most vulnerable people. I applaud Alex for bringing this idea forward and I hope that people are able to support this project.”

Ros Parker, principal for Southend Adult Community College, said: “We are not looking for proof of need. If you are in need then we are here to help, and this discreet service is available to all of our learners.

“Throughout lockdown, we provided 4,500 meals for the homeless and our most vulnerable students, with a strong team of college volunteers who worked tirelessly to prepare and deliver wellbeing packages to the community. We simply do not want to see any of our students hungry this winter. We are a community college and our community will always be our priority.”

The college café is open Monday – Friday, 9am – 2pm.

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