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Mon, 24 Aug 2026

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 Kids food scheme set to grow after 'crazy' support

The Grumpy Cook in Hastings is set to expand its scheme after receiving £30,000 in donations.

* The Grumpy Cook cafe in Hastings, which runs the scheme, wants to expand it to weekends outside of school holidays and other parts of East Sussex.
* The scheme's owner, Barry Ashley, says he was "crazy" about the response, with donations coming from as far away as New York and Australia.
* Local businesses are supporting the scheme, with the Dot Cafe in Peacehaven planning to offer a similar service.
* The scheme is one of several initiatives aimed at helping low-income families access food during school holidays, after changes to government support earlier this year led to a rise in demand for aid.
* East Sussex County Council says it will spend £7.3 million over the next year on supporting residents facing financial hardship, including debt advice and community food support.