Glentoran Social Partnership has supported local children and families in East Belfast by providing free lunches for youngsters attending the Gathering Summer Scheme at Pitt Park.

Around 30 to 40 children took part in the programme, with the Partnership working alongside organisers to provide lunches across two days of summer activities.

The initiative provided practical support during the school holidays, a time when many families can face additional financial pressures, and forms part of the Glentoran Social Partnership’s continued work with local organisations across East Belfast.

The Gathering Summer Scheme provided children with a safe and welcoming place to spend time with friends, take part in activities and enjoy their summer in a positive environment.

Glentoran first-team player Liam Burt also attended one of the sessions, helping to serve lunch to the children before returning with toys and gifts he had generously purchased for the young participants.

The Summer Scheme received further support from Gourmet Burgers, the Club’s official hot food vendor at the BetMcLean Oval, which generously donated burgers and baps for its end-of-week barbecue.

Colin Jess, Chairperson of Glentoran Football Club, said: “The school holidays should be something every child can enjoy, but we know they can also put extra pressure on families. If providing lunches helps make things a little easier and means the children can enjoy everything the summer scheme has to offer, then we’re delighted to help.

“A big part of the Glentoran Social Partnership is about working with local organisations and finding practical ways we can support people in our community. The Gathering is doing fantastic work with young people in East Belfast and we’re very pleased to be able to support them.

“It was also great to see Liam getting involved. He came along to help serve lunch and then returned with toys and gifts he had bought for the children. It was a lovely gesture from him personally and one that was very much appreciated by everyone involved.

“We’re also extremely grateful to Gourmet Burgers for supporting the scheme and providing food for the end-of-week barbecue. It’s another example of people connected with the Club getting behind a really worthwhile community initiative.”

The initiative forms part of the Glentoran Social Partnership’s wider community support programme, which delivers practical assistance to children, young people and families across East Belfast and beyond.

Engaging more than 3,500 people each year and generating an estimated £2.9 million in social value annually, the Partnership works with schools, charities and community organisations to tackle food poverty, promote inclusion and create opportunities for local people.

Its impact has been recognised with the Club Community Initiative of the Year award at the 2025 NIFL Football Awards and the Community Impact Award at the 2024 EastSide Awards.