McKinnell has raised concerns that there are gaps in support for children from families on low incomes too low to avoid food insecurity but not low enough for free school meals (FSM) or the Healthy Start voucher scheme.
Speaking about the announcement to continue funding support for the Holiday Activity and Food programme, she said: “The Committee has previously raised concerns with Ministers about the lack of a long-term funding commitment, so this is welcome.
“Marcus Rashford’s petition and campaign has done so much to draw attention to the distressing fact of child food poverty in England, but with families facing rising food prices this winter, Government must do more on this issue.
“I know campaigners have raised particular concerns about lack of support for children from families on low incomes who don’t qualify for free school meals. The Government must look closely at the recommendations when it responds to the National Food Strategy review in the new year.”
The National Food Strategy recommended that FSM eligibility should be expanded to all children aged 7-18 in all households earning £20,000 or less after benefits.