Tesco has launched a new Fruit and Veg Grants programme to support organisations working with children and young people to improve access to healthy food across the UK.
The funding is intended to help deliver activities that increase the availability of fruit and vegetables and support physical and mental wellbeing.
Grants are awarded through a customer voting process in Tesco stores. Three local projects are shortlisted at a time, with awards of up to £1,500 for the project receiving the most votes, up to £1,000 for second place and up to £500 for third place. Shortlisting takes place every four months.
The initiative is open to schools, registered charities and not-for-profit organisations, including voluntary and community groups, social enterprises, parish and town councils, local authorities and housing organisations. Community Interest Companies must be limited by guarantee and have been operating for at least two years.
Funding can be used for a range of activities focused on healthy eating. This includes breakfast and after-school clubs providing fruit and vegetables, holiday clubs offering healthy meals and snacks, growing projects, cooking sessions, youth clubs, sports clubs and initiatives addressing holiday hunger. Support may also be provided for food banks assisting families.
There are no deadlines. This is a rolling programme, and applications can be made at any time during the year.