Newport Live’s Summer Events Tackle Holiday Hunger and Promote Wellbeing for Over 3,000 Children
More than 3,000 children and their families have participated in a series of exciting summer events organized by Newport Live, a community sport and wellbeing team. As the final week of the summer holidays approaches, the team has successfully delivered over 20 events and activities catered to children aged 3 to 18 years.
These engaging events have been held in various locations such as parks, green spaces, primary and secondary schools, as well as Newport Live facilities. Attendees have been treated to a range of activities including Welly Walks, Kick About, Hub Rugby, Girls Takeover Summer, Sport in the Park, and Pop-Up Sport events, ensuring there is something for everyone regardless of age or interest.
In addition to providing families with the opportunity to try out different sports and activities, these events have fostered an atmosphere of fun and socialization, allowing participants to connect with friends and fellow community members.
Moreover, Newport Live’s community sport and wellbeing team has actively addressed the issue of holiday hunger by providing vital support to families in need. Over the course of five weeks, the team has distributed more than 360 breakfasts, nearly 1,000 packed lunches, as well as fruits and water.
Chloe Powton, the community sport and physical activity development manager, expressed her delight at witnessing the remarkable engagement of children in these events. Seeing them actively embrace physical activity, enjoy sports, and forge connections with their peers has been truly rewarding.
Recognizing the pressing concern of holiday hunger, Powton emphasized the importance of providing breakfasts and packed lunches, stating that Newport Live is committed to tackling the problem head-on.
Andrea Ovey, the director of business development at Newport Live, highlighted how the summer program seamlessly complements the team’s year-round efforts to promote engagement in both sports and the arts. Ovey emphasized the significant benefits these activities offer, not only in terms of physical wellbeing but also mental and emotional health.
The overwhelming number of participants in these events clearly indicates a strong demand and need within the centers and communities for such activities, which have been made possible through funding from esteemed organizations including Sport Wales, Newport City Council, the Welsh Government, the Office of the Police & Crime Commissioner for Gwent, and the Arts Council of Wales.
With just over a week remaining in the summer holidays, Newport Live’s Community Sport and Wellbeing team has a few more exciting events lined up. As they continue to make a positive impact on children’s lives, it is evident that their efforts have successfully tackled holiday hunger while promoting physical and mental wellbeing among Newport’s youth.
