Taking a Bite out of Student Hunger for 25 Years
Written by admin, October 25, 2017
October 25, 2017 – Food for Kids Peterborough and County Celebrate 25 years of Student Nutrition Programs
As the school year hits its stride, Food for Kids Peterborough and County is celebrating 25 years of supporting local student nutrition programs.
“For 25 years, our amazing network of schools, students, volunteers, parents, educators, community members, businesses, organizations, faith groups and service clubs have fed hungry students so that they can attend school well- nourished and ready to learn,” said Angela Fuchs, Community Development Coordinator for Food for Kids. “The impact of this program is mindboggling, supporting tens of thousands of students over a generation to achieve their full potential.”
The history of local student nutrition programs dates back to 1992 whena local service club approached two schools in downtown Peterborough (Central Public School and St. Peter’s Catholic Elementary School) with the idea of starting a breakfast club. This grassroots group also requested the assistance of the then-called Peterborough County-City Health Unit, under the leadership of former Medical Officer of Health Dr. Gary Humphreys, for nutrition and community development resources.
“It was a pivotal moment in child nutrition and learning in our community as these first partners recognized the importance of a healthy breakfast for students and the difference it made on their learning, attention, energy and participation,” said Ms. Fuchs.
Since those initial efforts, Peterborough County and City residentshave embraced the initiative in an astounding way. Today, Food for Kids supports student nutrition programs in 47 schools. These amazing programs are run by more than 1,000 volunteers who collectively fed almost 16,000 students last year alone.
“For our anniversary we especially want to honour our volunteers for their endless enthusiasm and support making good breakfast programs happen by shopping, baking, chopping, serving, cleaning, fundraising, menu planning, and recruiting volunteers,” said Ms. Fuchs. “Our volunteers are the energy, the helping hands, and the cheerful smiles that welcome our children and youth each day.”
Ms. Fuchs also acknowledged the hundreds of local sponsors and food suppliers who have generously supported local student nutrition programs since 1992. In addition to local sponsors, the Ministry of Children and Youth Services has provided partial funding since 2004 when the provincial government announced its commitment to develop student nutrition programs across Ontario.
To volunteer for Food for Kids or to make a donation, contact your local school or visit www.FoodforKidsPtbo.ca.
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For further information, please contact:
Lauren Kennedy, Registered Dietitian
Peterborough Public Health
705-743-1000, ext. 243