With the school year underway, the Ontario Student Nutrition Program hopes to meet a rising need.
Run by the Victorian Order of Nurses (VON) Ontario branch, the program aims to address food insecurity by providing healthy meals and snacks to students.
In an interview with MyStratford Now, program communication supervisor Danielle Findlay said that right now, “a family of four is spending around $300 a week on groceries.”
“That’s over $1,300 a month to meet Canada’s food guide recommendations,” said Findlay.
“We know the cost of food is significant, and families are often forced to make difficult decisions between food and other essential expenses.”
She added that the program provides funding and support to 61 schools in Huron and Perth counties, where last school year saw close to 2 million meals provided to over 11,000 students.
Meals include two to three food groups and a serving of vegetables/fruit, according to the program’s website.
She said providing meals helps the students concentrate in school.
“When we’re at work during the day and hungry, that’s a challenge for us and a distraction,” said Findlay.
“For a student in a classroom setting, without proper nourishment, it can sometimes lead to challenges with focus, and increased behaviours.”
Findlay added by having food programs in schools, it can be a real boost for students coming from food insecure homes.
With community support crucial to keeping the program running, Findlay is calling for help from residents through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness.
