Holiday Food & Fun – Summer 2025 at #Merky HQ

Delivered by Communities First in partnership with Majestic Services and proudly sponsored by Croydon Council’s HAF Team

This summer, we brought 16 unforgettable days of creativity, sport, learning, and laughter to young people across Croydon through our Holiday Food and Fun Programme. Hosted at #Merky HQ, the sessions provided a vibrant mix of enrichment, wellbeing, and adventure — all supported by daily hot, healthy meals.

Our Facilities

Our facilities at #Merky FC HQ include a Gaming Room, Dance Studio, Music Studio, and a dedicated Enrichment Room where activities ranged from arts and crafts, DJing, T-shirt design, and a talent showcase, to dance rehearsals, outdoor football, and even a sports day with relay races in the rear courtyard.

Fuelled by Great Food

Fuelled by Unique Catering Services, our young people enjoyed nutritious meals each day — from Jollof rice with sweet chilli chicken and salad, to meatballs, spaghetti bolognese, jacket potatoes, and homemade desserts. We also hosted two lively Caribbean BBQs, bringing families and friends together to celebrate community and culture.

Trips & Adventures

Beyond the centre, participants enjoyed a series of memorable day trips to explore, learn, and have fun:

• National Trust adventures at Morden Hall Park and Box Hill

• Water fun at Guildford Lido

• Outdoor activities at Wimbledon Park

• High-energy excitement at Flip Out and Thorpe Park

Skills & Inspiration

Our programme also included a wide range of skills and inspiration workshops, from Bleed Kit training (featured on ITV and attended by the Elected Mayor of Croydon) to CV writing, police engagement, and entrepreneurship sessions like ‘How to Make a Million’ by Charles Gordon.

Every young person had the chance to record their voice in our studio session, where children and staff came together to create a special Summer Scheme song — a celebration of everything they’d achieved together.

The 2025 Holiday Food & Fun Programme captured what we do best: building confidence, creativity, and community through learning, laughter, and inclusion.