Tesco is set to re-launch its Kids Eat Free scheme to help families provide children with a balanced meal.
One free Kids Hot Meal Deal, Kids Breakfast or Kids Pick ‘n’ Mix deal will be on offer with each item bought by an adult when showing their Clubcard at the till.
Rolling out to the leading retailers 312 cafés from Boxing Day until 6 January 2023, menu items include beans on avocado toast, fish fingers, baked chicken goujons or a sandwich.
Main meals also include a vegetable side dish and a sandwich pick n mix features a piece of fresh fruit.
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This comes as research from The Food Foundation found that four million children are affected by food insecurity, the highest level tracked since the start of the pandemic.
Households with children were also found to be more likely to experience food insecurity than households without children.
“We are pleased to bring back our Kids Eat Free initiative in Tesco Cafés, offering a little extra support over the Christmas holidays,” Tesco UK CEO, Jason Tarry said.
“We want to help parents and carers to provide children with nutritious food – saving them some money at a time when budgets are tighter than ever. Children can get a balanced meal and hopefully get into the Christmas spirit too.”
The Food Foundation executive director, Anna Taylor added: “It’s great to see Tesco supporting families in this way, particularly at such an important time of year. We know that the cost-of-living crisis has put increased pressure on vulnerable households, so the ability for parents and carers to get a free meal in so many communities across the country is very welcome.
“Hunger doesn’t take a holiday, so it’s vital that both the government and businesses act to support families as we head into what will be a very challenging Winter for many.”
