Ayr United's award-winning Academy programme is among those set to benefit as part of a project tackling child poverty.
The Scottish Government this morning announced £15 million of investment aimed at thousands of low-income families who will benefit from free school age childcare.
Existing services for eligible families such as those run by United's Academy are among those in line to be expanded.
Clubs like Ayr will be able to apply for funding totalling £2 million to support the provision of after school and holiday activities clubs, in a joint initiative with the Scottish Football Association.
Nine other projects will also receive a share of the £15 million funding to continue offering childcare services in 2023-24.
First Minister Humza Yousaf made the funding announcement as he visited the United Football Academy’s holiday club this morning.
He said: "Tackling child poverty and helping families deal with cost of living pressures are key priorities.
“Funded school age childcare benefits families in a number of ways. It supports parents and carers into work, enabling them to provide for their families and to contribute to a wellbeing economy.
"It also provides safe, nurturing environments for children and opportunities for them to socialise and take part in a wide range of activities.
“This £15 million investment is part of our work to build a system of year-round school age childcare – fully funded for those who need it most."
Ayr United Football Academy Chair Allan Gunning added: "This project supports children and families by providing a wide range of activities through after school and holiday clubs.
“It is delivering positive outcomes for children including: increased access to activities and sports, improved nutritional intake, enhanced fitness and engagement in wider education.
"The project is also delivering positive outcomes for families including; assisting with employment, education and training, increasing community involvement, and family participation in grassroots clubs and organisations.
“We are delighted that project funding is continuing and appreciate the Scottish Government's ongoing commitment to improving outcomes.”
Read next:
- Carvery to open at former restaurant site with all you can eat breakfast and lunch
- Tributes to 'angel' Morrisons supermarket worker who had 'heart of gold'
- Vital information was crucial to Ayrshire weapons and drug raids
- Police probe unexplained death of woman, 41, in Ayr flats
- Class A drugs, knives and other weapons seized in 'day of action' by police
Don't miss the latest Ayrshire headlines – sign up to our free daily newsletter here
