The Larder League
A Summer Playscheme That Feeds Play & Our Community
The Larder League is an innovative and dignified summer playscheme for children aged 5 to 12 years, where families contribute non-perishable food instead of money to secure their child’s place. It’s a community-powered model that turns play into provision.
Instead of the usual fee, we ask families to donate a minimum of £3 worth of non-perishable food per child, per day. Where there is more than one child, we would ask for a £5 minimum. These donations will stock a community food larder, helping to address food insecurity locally while children enjoy a fun, active & safe summer!
We expect to welcome up to to 60 children each day – meaning real impact & support for families across our community.
How It Works – For Families
- Each morning, families will drop off their daily food donation when bringing their child to the playscheme.
- Donations must be non-perishable and in-date, such as pasta, tinned goods, cereal, jars, sauces, toiletries, or long-life milk.
- Families struggling to meet this request are encouraged to speak with us – no child will be excluded.
How It Works – The Community Impact
- All donated food is stored and set up as a community food larder, open weekly to participating families.
- This model reduces stigma, strengthens local connections, and gives families the power to support one another.
- It also reduces waste, promotes volunteering, and fosters a culture of contribution over charity.
The Larder League Rules
- Daily Contribution: One food donation per child, per day, valued at approx. £3 minimum. Where there are two or more children, we would ask for £5 minimum instead.
- Food Standards: All food must be unopened, undamaged, within date and shelf-stable; we cannot accept any refrigerated items. We also do not accept alcohol or sharp objects. Other donations such as toiletries, cleaning products, or dog & cat food are perfectly acceptable so long as they aren’t damaged, expired or opened.
- Drop-Off: Donations are made each morning at check-in, where they are logged by a designated Larder League volunteer. Any carrier bags are welcome too!
- Fair & Equal Exchange: The playscheme place is offered in exchange for food, not as a free service. Where parents / carers do not contribute food, there will be a financial charge per day – this will be excessive of the £3 food donation. In cases of difficulty, please speak confidentially to a member of our staff – we are here to help and ensure no child misses out.
- Larder Access: On Fridays, families may access the larder to receive a fair share of provisions.
- Supportive Culture: This is a non-judgemental, person-centred initiative. Kindness, communication and community values are central! The Larder League is built on mutual support. Please respect the rules, our staff, volunteers, and each other.
Why This Matters
- Offers children enriching summer activities.
- Promotes dignity-based food support.
- Encourages active community participation.
- Strengthens family resilience in challenging times.
- Create a replicable, scalable model for other communities.
Donation Examples - What We're Looking For:
