At Le Pain Quotidien, this February is dedicated to sharing; sharing love, sharing kindness and most importantly - sharing bread.
Following the recent government announcement that schools will be shut until 8 March and that the extension for Free School Meals vouchers is excluded over Half-Term, Le Pain Quotidien is going to help ensure that primary school children in their local areas are provided with high-quality, nutritious bread.
The bakery will support local kids in need by donating freshly baked loaves to families who are struggling, committing to donate enough for each child eligible for Free School Meals over the break.
Additionally, every 1.8kg loaf sold in all currently open London locations from 8th - 21st February will be matched with a voucher, distributed via primary schools in the surrounding communities.
Redeemable by families in their nearest bakery, the vouchers can be exchanged for a loaf of choice, the basis for a hearty breakfast and healthy lunch. Le Pain Quotidien breads are made using organic Shipton Mill Flour, offering sourdough varieties available in Wholemeal, White, Dark Rye, Seeded, Walnut and Spelt, or Whole Wheat Fruit loaves, baguettes and Buckwheat flour options.
Jana Somon, Head of Marketing UK, said, “Marcus Rashford’s Free School Meals campaign has shone a light on the harsh reality that children of many families across the capital rely heavily on the food provided by their schools, with Covid only adding to this issue.
'It’s heartbreaking to think any kids would go hungry because the schools are closed. At Le Pain Quotidien we are committed to helping our local communities as best we can, which naturally, is to share our bread.”
The drive is part of Le Pain Quotidien’s Small Steps initiative, bringing in a series of efficient, meaningful and impactful steps to contribute to a better community, a better ecological footprint and therefore a better planet. Recent steps have seen an expanded vegan menu, a coffee grind recycling program, and the upcoming switch to biodegradable coffee lids and compostable packaging.
Steven Whibley, Managing Director, added, “We believe that change doesn’t come from big resolutions, but by taking small steps. We’re not announcing bold statements or resolutions which we cannot fulfil. We have a passion for real food, ethical sourcing, and a commitment to zero waste, and so we need to make actions that reflect that.”