18 February 2026
Supporting local families through healthy food
Three local charities have joined forces to help Northamptonshire families lead healthier lifestyles through the unifying power of food.
50 Families is a strategic philanthropic project, supported and funded by Northamptonshire Community Foundation on behalf of Food4Heroes, evaluated by the University of Northampton, and delivered by Home-Start Northampton, Power of the Mind Networks, and The Spring Charity.
“Being part of the cooking class has been a wonderful experience for me and my family; we learnt how to prepare healthy meals for less.”
– 50 Families participant
The project has supported local families to make healthier food and cooking choices while also aiming to reduce pressures related to the ongoing cost of living. It has helped people build confidence and skills with healthier food, reduced social isolation, and encouraged families to connect and support each other.
Support included cooking workshops, peer learning, and culturally relevant food activities.
Unlike existing short-term interventions such as food banks or school holiday healthy eating initiatives, 50 Families provides lasting skills that families can take home and use in their everyday lives.