THE area's two MSPs have been greatly heartened by the news that Fife Council is to receive £1,010, 000 to maintain free school meals during the summer break

The local authority will also receive £1,040,000 for wider food support for low income families, as the as the COVID-19 continues to pose issues.

Cowdenbeath MSP, Annabelle Ewing, and her Kinglassie counterpart, Jenny Gilruth, MSP for Glenrothes and Mid Fife, have welcomed the news that children in their constituency, eligible for free school meals, will be among those who continue to be supported over the summer through a package of £27.6 million of additional funding from the Scottish Government.

Fife Council will receive £1,010,000 funding from the SNP Government to support the continued provision of free school meals during the summer holiday period, and £1,040,000 for the wider provision of food support.

This funding will ensure that Fife Council is able to continue the provision of free school meals during the summer holidays and other food provision to help low income families during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ms Ewing said: “We know that this pandemic has put real financial pressure on families, and it’s right that the Scottish Government has ensured Fife Council can continue to provide free school meals and support families, children and young people who need some extra help at this challenging time".

Ms Gilruth added: "This extra support will make a huge difference to children and their families in my constituency and help to ensure the most vulnerable people in our society receive support during this pandemic.”

The MSPs point out that individuals who are unable to access or afford food and cannot get the help they need from family, friends or neighbours are encouraged to call the national assistance helpline. The free helpline number is 0800 111 4000, or can be contacted via a textphone on 0800 111 4114. The helpline is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm.