The Schools Partnership Programme, led by The McCarthy-Dixon Foundation (TMDF), is a compassionate and highly targeted initiative supporting children and families across Northamptonshire who are experiencing hardship, crisis, or long-term disadvantage.  Now working in partnership with over 90 Primary, Secondary, and Alternative Provision schools, the programme delivers practical, meaningful support that helps families regain stability and ensures children can remain fully engaged in their education. 

Developed in close consultation with school staff, the programme enables teachers and safeguarding leads to make direct referrals for pupils whose families are struggling.  This ensures that support is not only timely and relevant but also delivered with care and dignity.  By working in partnership with schools, TMDF can reach those most in need and address everyday inequalities that can so easily affect a child’s ability to thrive. 

Importantly, the relationship is a reciprocal one.  Many partner schools support TMDF’s work through fundraising events such as non-uniform days and bake sales, helping to raise vital funds that sustain the programme.  Schools also regularly send pupil groups to TMDF’s Food Hub in Moulton Park, where pupils assist with sorting donations and packing parcels, creating a sense of shared responsibility and strengthening community values among the next generation. 

Food and Essentials 

At the core of the programme is food provision.  Partner schools receive regular deliveries of non-perishable food parcels containing 13–15kg of staple items such as pasta, cereal, tinned food, and snacks.  These deliveries are particularly important during school holidays, when access to free school meals is paused.  Emergency food parcels are also provided in response to urgent referrals.  While most of the food is sourced and supplied directly by TMDF, schools also contribute by donating items collected during Harvest, which help to supplement parcels and extend the reach of the support provided.  All parcels are packed and delivered by a dedicated team of TMDF volunteers who ensure support is given with respect and discretion. 

Breakfast Boxes 

TMDF also supplies schools with discreet Breakfast Boxes containing cereal bars, fruit juice, and dried fruit.  These enable staff to quietly support children who may arrive at school without having eaten, giving them a healthy start to the day and helping them feel cared for and included. 

School Shoes 

Through a voucher system, the programme funds properly fitted school shoes for children who need them.  This enables families to access high-quality shoes without financial strain, and ensures pupils arrive at school in comfort and confidence, equal to their peers. 

Tech 4 Kids 

TMDF’s Tech 4 Kids project provides laptops and tablets to children facing digital exclusion, whether due to illness, mental health needs, family disruption, or lack of resources. These devices allow children to stay connected to their learning and their peers, giving them vital continuity during challenging periods. 

Seasonal and Crisis Support 

Throughout the year, TMDF responds to  a wide range of additional needs, including winter coats, back-to-school essentials, Christmas presents, and one-off crisis support.  Each item is carefully considered to ensure it delivers real impact to families at difficult moments in their lives. 

 

The Schools Partnership Programme is a powerful example of TMDF’s commitment to practical, compassionate support delivered where it is needed most.  Businesses and individuals wishing to contribute to this work can donate via https://localgiving.org/charity/the-mccarthy-dixon-foundation, and further details about the programme can be found at https://mccarthydixon.org.uk/schools/ .