THE Isle of Wight Council has been awarded £407,660 to fund local organisations to provide free activities and a healthy meal to disadvantaged children during the Easter break – April 2 to 16. Cllr Paul Brading, cabinet member for children's services, education and skills, said he was pleased the authority could support so many local organisations. Cllr Brading said: "School holidays can be particularly difficult for families because of increased costs, such as food and childcare, and reduced incomes – especially during the pandemic. "Children from disadvantaged families are less likely to access organised out-of-school activities and therefore miss out on the health benefits and social connections.