PEEK is short for ‘Possibilities for Each & Every Kid’ and that’s exactly what they provide. Working across the city, this charity provides safe places for children to actively play, create art, take part in sports, participate in educational workshops and even have access to free, healthy food. When we were asked by Rhona MacDonald, the Lead Community Chef with the organisation, to provide a donation to supply some food for their summer holiday programmes, we were more than happy to be able to help.

 

1, Tell us how it all started and a little bit more about PEEK

PEEK was set up in 2000 to address the impact of poverty on the children living in the most deprived communities in the East End of Glasgow. It started with a voluntary management committee that was supported by the Church of Scotland to provide play, creative and educational opportunities for local children aged between 5-12yrs old in the Gallowgate and Calton areas. We have significantly grown in the last 24 years expanding the scope and reach of services to meet the needs of children, young people and families affected by poverty across Glasgow. We are now a multi award-wining organisation that is trusted by communities and recognised at national level for it’s impact on the lives of children, young people and families.

2, Can you tell us a little bit about what will be done with the food donation provided by Greencity?

During the summer holidays PEEK is extremely busy delivering our summer holiday programmes to children across Glasgow. This year, our programmes are being hosted at St. Anne's Primary in Bridgeton and St. Martin's School in Sighthill. During these sessions, we provide free hot lunches for the children. We are incredibly grateful for Greencity's donation, which is helping us purchase the ingredients and produce needed for these meals.

3, What other interesting things are going on at PEEK?

So many things are happening at PEEK! The best way to get an inside look at our programmes is by following us on Instagram @peek_project. All our sessions are free and range from outdoor play, sports, and art workshops to cooking, theatre, dance, youth sessions, and much more! We also support families during pregnancy through our antenatal workshops, followed by our PEEKaBoo Play Café for parents and carers of children aged 0-5 years. Recently, we expanded our services for families by introducing adult wellbeing workshops. These sessions offer a variety of cooking, art, and holistic workshops, providing grandparents, parents, and carers the opportunity to learn new skills and connect with their community.

4, Tell us a bit more about any other things you do to support the people of Glasgow.

In December, our entire team unites to deliver our annual Winter Warmer Campaign. Relying solely on external fundraising, we provide many of our families with warm clothing, winter jackets, wellies, toys, and food support during the Christmas season. This significant operation is a cornerstone of PEEK. Additionally, our Wellbeing team offers vital support to PEEK families, providing one-on-one assistance with crisis grant applications and additional food and household support. We work closely with families to offer necessary referrals and further assistance as needed.

5, Is there anything members of the public can do to help support your organisation?

We are grateful for anyone who spreads the word about PEEK! We also rely heavily on fundraising and always welcome donations or community support through donations or even choosing PEEK as a charity to fundraise for on our behalf. All information on fundraising can be found here www.peekproject.org.uk/support-us/fundraise/

6, If you could invite anybody, living or dead, to your dream dinner party, who would you invite and why?

Billy Connolly – he is a Glasgow legend beloved by our team. David Attenborough - a national hero who we would have amazing stories and teach us all something. Fredia Kalio – an artist who believed in social justice, we believe in making creative opportunities for all! George Harrison – to provide the great tunes Steve Irwin – for his charisma and cool animals Hey Duggee - the kids LOVE Hey Duggee! We wouldn’t need to invite a chef, as our team already has a great one!

 

Thanks to Hannah Clarke, the wellbeing co-ordinator at PEEK for answering our questions! You can find out more about their work and make a donation at www.peekproject.org.uk/support-us/make-a-donation/