Expanded summer meals programme for Mayo youth services

Families across Mayo will receive extra support this summer as five local youth services are included in the expanded Summer Holiday Meals Pilot Programme for 2026.

The programme will grow from 41 to 77 youth services nationwide, with funding increasing to €600,000. From June 2, young people aged 10 to 18 attending participating UBU youth services will be able to access a hot or substantial meal during the school summer holidays.

Welcoming the news, Minister Alan Dillon said: “This is a practical Fine Gael measure that will help families, support communities and make sure young people are looked after during the summer months.”

The five Mayo services included are: Foróige An Cosán — serving the Erris and Belmullet area; The BEY Project — based in Ballyhaunis; Foróige Castlebar — serving Castlebar and surrounding communities; Involve Youth Service Ballina; Youth Work Ireland North Mayo, supporting young people across north Mayo.

Minister Dillon said the expansion is a strong vote of confidence in local youth services. “Parents know the pressure that can come during the school holidays. This programme gives extra support to families and ensures young people can access a proper meal in a safe, welcoming community setting.”

He added: “These five Mayo organisations do outstanding work every week in Erris, Ballyhaunis, Castlebar, Ballina and across north Mayo. By backing them, Government is backing young people, parents and local communities across our county.”

Minister Dillon said the expansion shows Government’s commitment to targeted, practical supports for families. “This is what responsible Government is about: identifying real pressures, investing in local services, and delivering supports that make a difference in people’s daily lives.”