Cinemagic’s Young Audiences Supporting Foodbanks Regional Tour has launched at Seamus Heaney HomePlace, Bellaghy, with a special family film screening of Hoppers and a practical, hands-on animation workshop for young filmmakers.
Supported By The National Lottery Awards for All Programme, the Cinemagic Young Audiences Supporting Foodbanks Regional Tour is running across every county in Northern Ireland from this July to November 2027 presenting family films and offering animation workshops for 8-14 year olds hosted by acclaimed animation filmmaker Joel Simon.
Cinemagic is working in partnership with local arts venues and Trusell Foodbanks to generate food donations at film screening events to help those in need, to inspire young people and educate them on the causes and impact of food poverty.
A spokesperson for The National Lottery Community Fund said: “Thanks to National Lottery players, we’re delighted to support this fantastic community initiative.The National Lottery Awards for All programme provides funding for projects that bring people together and strengthen communities across Northern Ireland. Congratulations to the Cinemagic team.”
Chris Shaw, Cinemagic Festival Programmer said “Cinemagic is delighted to receive support from The National Lottery Awards for All Programme to launch our Young Audiences Supporting Foodbanks Regional Tour.
The funding enables us to extend our reach into new communities across Northern Ireland, to engage with young people on an important social issue and to make a difference in the lives of individuals who need the support of foodbanks.
To date Cinemagic audiences have generated over 20,000 meals through its Festival Foodbank film events and we wish to build on this generosity and continue to make a positive impact in the lives of people from all backgrounds across Northern Ireland. We are excited about using film and animation to highlight the positive work that Trussell does, and we look forward to working with young people to create bespoke animations which will be shown at a special cinema premiere event in autumn 2027.”
Carla Smyth, Trussell Network Lead Northern Ireland said “Nearly 70,000 emergency food parcels were distributed by food banks in the Trussell community across Northern Ireland last year, including more than 26,000 for children. This partnership with Cinemagic is not only helping us support people in crisis but also raising awareness among young people of the realities of poverty. No one should have to rely on emergency food, and by challenging stigma and building understanding, we can help create a future where food banks are no longer needed.”
Seamus Heaney HomePlace Education Officer, Sarah Cullen said “We’re delighted to have partnered with Cinemagic to launch the Young Audiences Supporting Foodbanks Regional Tour here at Seamus Heaney HomePlace. Seeing families come together to enjoy the film, take part in the animation workshop and support such an important cause made it a really special day. We’re especially proud to be part of a project that encourages creativity, kindness, community spirit and a better understanding of the challenges some families face today.”
Visit cinemagic.org.uk for details on booking places at upcoming film screenings and animation workshops.
Press Information: Claire Shaw, Cinemagic Press Officer
claire@cinemagic.org.uk 028 90 311900
