UMi Helps Provide Much-Needed Breaks for Children in Poverty Inverclyde

Children in Poverty Inverclyde received a £3,000 grant from UMi Community Fund to fund their Sunshine Holiday project, which provided 120 local children with a much-needed escape to scenic holiday parks. The grant allowed the organisation to purchase holiday weeks at Hunters Quay Holiday Village and Parkdean Holiday Village in Wemyss Bay, offering superb accommodations and a range of activities.

The children and their families stayed in three-bedroom Comfort Plus Caravans, fully equipped for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Each caravan featured a modern open-plan living area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with outdoor seating, ensuring the families had plenty of space to relax and create lasting memories. The holiday also included ferry tickets, a welcome grocery pack, and vouchers for free entry to various activities, ensuring that every family could make the most of their time away.

The impact of these holidays was profound. Many of the children and families come from challenging environments where poverty and trauma are daily realities. The opportunity to spend time in a beautiful, safe, and supportive setting allowed them to build happy memories, strengthen family bonds, and experience the joy of simply being together. The children were particularly thrilled with the swimming facilities, soft play areas, and outdoor spaces, where they could run around freely and safely.

The therapeutic benefits of these holidays cannot be overstated. For many families, this was a rare chance to escape the stress of their everyday lives and focus on fun and relaxation. The parents expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to see their children laugh, play, and experience new adventures in a secure environment. The holidays provided a sense of normalcy and joy that many of these children rarely experience.

Children in Poverty Inverclyde’s project was so successful that it has opened up new opportunities for the organisation, including engaging with the local Refugee Engagement Scheme and providing breaks for children and their carers from Craigmarloch School in Port Glasgow. The success of this initiative, supported by the grant, has allowed the organisation to invite more families than initially anticipated, ensuring that even more children could benefit from the experience.

The £3,000 grant has made a lasting impact, allowing Children in Poverty Inverclyde to offer a life-changing experience for many local children and their families. Through the Sunshine Holiday project, these families were able to step away from their daily challenges, bond with each other, and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

For more information about Children in Poverty Inverclyde, click here.