Food for Learning
The Hastings and Prince Edward Learning Foundation is the lead agency for student nutrition programs in South East Ontario.
About The Program
- Supports schools in the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board, Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board, and Conseil des Ecoles Publiques de l’Est de l’Ontario.
- Has program volunteers that are proud to be able to model lifelong healthy eating habits by offering food that meet Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services nutrition guidelines.
- Is supported by many local businesses that make significant in kind food donations such as Reid’s Dairy, Kellogg’s, Smylie’s & Dewe’s Independent Grocers.
- Hosts successful annual fundraising campaigns, that contribute to lowering the costs of growing programs, such as ‘Take a Bite out of Hunger’, Feed the Meter, and the Student Benefit Auction.
Testimonials
Food for Learning is available to all students. It takes away the stigma associated with not being able to provide food. Gives students the opportunity to learn- as we know students can not learn when they are hungry. Classes receive bins made up of Canada’s Food Guide criteria- these are refilled 3 times a week or more when needed. Students are given the opportunity to choose snacks first thing in the morning or during nutrition breaks. Staff also ensure students have access to kitchen for cold items. All students are given the opportunity.
Food for Learning Program Coordinator
By providing daily healthy and nutritious snacks and meals, we are able to support our students, ensuring they are able to attend and focus in class, ready to learn, while concentrating on school work rather than appetite. Knowing snacks are always available, (with absolutely no stigma attached), is a good feeling, and makes for a better day for both students and staff. So happy this program is available. It really has made a difference!
Food for Learning Program Coordinator
Access to breakfast and snack programs and the provision of grocery cards are not simply keeping students fed but demonstrating that even during the most uncertain times kindness, compassion, and love are what is needed to keep us moving forward together.
Elementary School Principal
HPEFoodForLearning.ca
Visit the official website of Food For Learning for more information about the program and to access school staff resources.