John Carter

More children will have full tummies thanks to a major funding boost by the National-led Government, says Northland MP John Carter.

The Prime Minister announced today on the Big Night In Telethon that the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Social Development are jointly funding $320,000 for KidsCan to deliver free food to an extra 7500 kids this year.

KidsCan currently provides free food each week at school for around 8500 financially disadvantaged children.

Executive Director of KidsCan Julie Helson says the funding from the National-led Government "could not have come at a better time. We will now be able to meet the needs of the thousands of hungry children on our waiting list, ensuring they are in better position to learn in the classroom."

John Carter says, "I'm really pleased that a number of local schools will benefit, including Awanui School, Mangonui School, Te Tii School, Omanaia School, Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Taumarere, Opononi Area School, Kaitaia Primary School, Moerewa School, Okaihau School, Oruaiti School, Oturu School, Pompallier Catholic School, Rawene School, Te Hapua School, Tinopai Primary School, Totara North School and Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Taumaarere.

'We know many parents are struggling to make ends meet, and that kids can't learn if they're hungry.

"This food will really make a difference to the ability of these children to concentrate at school.

"The funding boost is an example of the difference we can make for children and their families when communities come together in a spirit of generosity."