But some of them are probably just falling on hard times
I understand that. But still, the benefit system in this country is quite generous. Like I said earlier, a 2+2 family get around £1100 a month, before rent and council tax. So "hard times" is no excuse for kids going hungry. It's a reason to not drink as much, not buy scratchcards, not eat maccies, not go on holiday, not buy new clothes from designer stores, etc. Food for children is literally the highest priority.

No it's not the kids' fault their parents are terrible. And yes it's easier to dish out vouchers instead of sending out social workers. So you want the easy solution instead of the responsible solution? If you dish out vouchers, that provides an incentive for parents to keep being terrible. If you send a social worker, that provides an incentive for parents to stop being terrible.

And yes covid is a factor. That's why there are lots more people claiming UC. This is enough, provided parents don't squander the money.