Back the Child-Feeding Café Threatened by Reform

Aim

Supporting the Hastings café feeding children this summer and proving that intimidation will never defeat compassion.

I'm raising money to support Barry Ashley, the owner of The Grumpy Cook café in Hastings, who has shown extraordinary courage and compassion. After speaking out against cuts to children's holiday food support, he was threatened with police action by a Reform UK council leader. Instead of backing down, Barry carried on doing what mattered most: making sure vulnerable children didn't go hungry.

This Crowdfunder is our chance to show that the British public stands with people like Barry. Indeed, the best answer to this sort of politics isn't another angry argument. It's making sure Barry has the resources to keep doing what he does best: feeding children.

Hence, every penny raised will go directly towards helping Barry continue providing free meals for children in Hastings throughout the school holidays. If you believe no child should go hungry, please donate if you can, or share this page so others can do the same.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 1st September 2026 at 8:00pm