Tesco has launched several initiatives to support families during the 2026 summer school holidays, including the return of its "Free Fruit for Kids" scheme. The program runs from July 20 to August 30.
Children visiting over 800 large stores and 77 Express locations can pick up a free apple at the checkouts or via selected Click and Collect points. Tesco shared the news on Instagram this week, with one commenter writing: "Amazing! And love that this is in selected express stores too."
Origins and nutritional benefits
Originally launched in 2016, the program aims to provide healthy snacking alternatives and forms part of Tesco’s broader goal to give one million children access to free produce by 2029. Apples are nutritious, loaded with nutrients, contain soluble fibre (pectin) that promotes gut health, and are rich in antioxidants (polyphenols) that can help lower the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Kids Eat Free and donation bags
In addition to free fruit, the "Kids Eat Free" offer is available in 317 Tesco cafés across the UK. With any adult purchase starting from 60p and a valid Clubcard, parents can claim a free Kids Hot Meal, Breakfast, or Pick ‘n’ Mix deal. For the first time, this offer has been expanded to include weekends throughout the summer break.
Tesco is also facilitating community donations through pre-filled food bags, available until August 30 in England and Wales. These bags cost between £2 and £4 and contain essential, nutritious long-life items. All donations are distributed via the Trussell Trust and the Felix Project to local food banks. Tesco says donations will directly support the increasing number of families requiring emergency food parcels during the summer months.
Charity leaders comment
Matthew van Duyvenbode, co-chief executive officer at Trussell, said: "Our community of food banks distributed more than 900,000 parcels for children last year, demonstrating the unacceptable levels of hunger and hardship so many families are currently facing. This isn’t right. That’s why the support of our partner Tesco is so crucial, providing in-store summer pick-up bags, making it much easier for people to support their local food bank throughout the school holidays."
Charlotte Hill, CEO at Felix, said: "We know from speaking to charities receiving food via our network that demand for food support is growing as people across the UK face cost-of-living pressures. During the school holidays, families will be facing additional financial burdens as they juggle the cost of childcare and food. Many will be turning to their local community and charities for support."
