St Kevin’s College Pupil & Family Food Bank & Free Breakfast Club has been running for four years, providing weekly food support to over 400 pupils and numerous vulnerable families with food hampers. In addition, a free breakfast club serves 300 pupils to ensure they start the day with a nutritious meal. Beyond food, the school runs a Free Uniform Shop/Swap Shop to support pupils with essential clothing.

Staffing and Engagement

The project is managed by a single dedicated member of staff. The initiative first learned about FareShare through the Fermanagh & Omagh District Council and has benefited from their support ever since, allowing the program to run year-round effectively.

Meeting Rising Demand

Over the past two years, demand for food has increased significantly. FareShare’s affordable and delivered food has enabled the project to expand support and maintain consistent service for both pupils and families.

Challenges Before FareShare

Before FareShare, food had to be purchased from local supermarkets, limiting support to six weeks due to funding constraints. The school’s rural location required a 20-mile journey to collect food. With FareShare’s competitive pricing and doorstep delivery, the project now operates year-round on the same funding.

Impact on Service Users

Families value the free food hampers, and pupils regularly use the free food fridge bank. The initiative has a meaningful impact on the daily lives of vulnerable families and pupils, particularly during the financially challenging Christmas period when demand is highest.

 “Do it, they are great people.”

Most Useful Products

Prepared food types are particularly useful due to limited storage for fresh and frozen items. FareShare’s contributions ensure the project can continue providing essential support without interruption, which would otherwise not be possible.