Welsh Government funding for families facing food poverty

The Welsh Government has announced funding to support families and individuals facing food poverty this winter.

£1.7 million of additional funding from the Welsh Government will be used to help to those most in need and back community projects working to prevent and tackle food poverty in the longer term.

The funding will be used to provide emergency food aid by helping local groups to store and distribute food to people who need it most, while also addressing the underlying causes of food poverty and support FareShare Cymru by purchasing equipment to store and deliver fresh food during the winter months and running food education activities to help low-income families and individuals manage rising costs. It will also strengthen food partnerships in every local authority area in Wales, helping them to address local needs and ensure resources reach those facing the greatest challenges.

The cabinet secretary for social justice, Jane Hutt, said: "No one should have to worry about how they’re going to put food on the table. As a government, we are committed to tackling food poverty and ensuring support reaches those who need it most.

"This new £1.7 million package of funding will provide both local relief to those struggling with food costs and lay the groundwork for longer-term solutions to prevent food poverty. By supporting emergency aid, food education, and local partnerships, we are addressing this crisis from all angles.

"Local food partnerships are vital in this effort. They work with inspiring projects, like Cegin Hedyn, which not only provides meals for people, but also brings people together and supports the wider community. Their efforts show what can be achieved when local groups and wider networks come together to support those most in need."

The funding will be announced at Cegin Hedyn community kitchen in Carmarthen, a Pay What You Can Canteen and Community Kitchen. It is part a network of organisations tackling food poverty, and works with Carmarthenshire Food Partnership, Bwyd Sir Gâr Food.

Cegin Hedyn is run by chef Deri Reed. He said: "This funding is a lifeline for communities like ours, ensuring that we can continue to provide fresh, nutritious meals to those who need them most while building a more sustainable and inclusive food system. At Cegin Hedyn, we believe in the power of food to bring people together and create positive change.

"This support will help us expand our reach, grow more organic produce locally, and strengthen the food partnerships that make a real difference in tackling food poverty in Carmarthenshire and beyond."