Islanders most in need are being offered vouchers to help buy food during the cost of living crisis.
The scheme allows people to spend the one-off vouchers at one of the Island’s major supermarkets, or in one of the new community pantries.
-A food voucher worth £125 is available to applicants in receipt of Local Council Tax Support, and Pension Credit Guarantee Credit.
-Those in receipt of Local Council Tax Support and benefits-related Free School Meals or Early Years Pupil Premium can apply for a £50 food voucher.
-Meanwhile, households in receipt of Local Council Tax Support with no children or pensioners can apply for a food voucher worth £25.
Full details including how to apply for a voucher are available on the connect4communities website.
Application forms can be completed online with paper copies also available from many community outlets, including libraries and some schools. A full list is available on the web page.
Queries regarding the voucher scheme should be directed to 01983 823950 or c4cvouchers@iow.gov.uk
You can also pick up an application form from:
- Council libraries in: Cowes, Freshwater, Newport, Ryde, Sandown or Ventnor
- Oakfield Primary School
- Aspire, Dover Street, Ryde, PO33 2BN
You can return the form by drop it off to one of the organisations listed above during their usual business hours.
Or you can return the form by post to:
connect4communities Voucher Scheme PO Box 238
Newport, Isle of Wight
PO30 9FP
Other support available for residents who may be struggling financially, include:
- connect4communities
- The Isle of Wight COVID-19 helpline: (01983) 823600
- Islehelp.me
- Citizens Advice: 0800 144 88 48 or citizensadviceiw.org.uk
- Help through crisis
Mental health support: iwmentalhealth.co.uk and NHS111 or get medical help – NHS 111
Financed by the £1.1million Household Support Fund, the voucher scheme forms part of a package of new supportive measures to help households with children, the elderly and other residents who are struggling financially.