Why are nutrition programs so important?
Romeo Leblanc, former Governor General of Canada, said it
best:
“When a child’s stomach is empty, everything else is secondary.
Before developing a thirst for knowledge and a hunger for learning, one
must satisfy the body’s thirst and hunger. This is the challenge
faced by our society.”
What are the benefits of school nutrition programs?
The first benefit is providing children with a good start to the day – or an energy boost in the case of a late-morning or mid-afternoon snack. Other benefits include nutrition education and a positive social experience. Sometimes the more intangible benefits are the most important of all.
Do nutrition programs influence behaviour and learning?
Hunger interferes with a child’s ability to concentrate. Teachers consistently report improvements in attention, behaviour and attendance when children are properly nourished.
How many healthy-eating programs are there in Simcoe County schools and how many children participate?
We will be starting the 2009 school year with more than 180 schools serving a nutrition program. At last count, over 60,000 children are benefitting from these programs daily.
Who is involved?
School nutrition programs are run by volunteers. Each program also has a volunteer site coordinator, who is responsible for scheduling, setting the menu, making sure the groceries are purchased and delivered, and maintaining consistent routines and expectations.
What kind of food is served?
Depending on the type of meal and time of day, the menu might include apples, bananas, 100% juice, cereal, toast, bagels, pancakes, muffins, cheese slices, milk and yogurt, many varieties of vegetables and granola bars.
Why are children not eating before coming to school? Why don’t they take nutritious snacks and lunch from home?
There are many reasons why children participate in nutrition programs at school. The following are just a few reasons: They take the school bus and don’t have time to eat breakfast. … fresh fruit and veggies aren’t available at home on a regular basis. … they like the social aspects of eating with their friends. … family finances are tight. … both parents are working outside the home and don’t always have time to prepare a nutritious snack or lunch.
Are only children from low-income families allowed to participate?
No, our programs are universal. Every child is welcome to attend. Our goal is to ensure that all children attend school well nourished and ready to learn.
What is the cost per child of breakfast/snack/lunch?
The cost of providing a nutritious breakfast to one child, five days a week throughout the school year, is $.85/day or $170/year. Total cost for 40 children (estimated participation at an inner city school breakfast club) is $6,800. The cost of a daily snack (fresh fruit, milk, whole wheat crackers) is about $.55/day per child or $110/year. For lunch, it is approximately $2.00 or $400/year. These calculations do not take into account in-kind donations of food and supplies, which reduce the cost considerably.
How much of my donation to Eat Well to Excel goes to buying food & supplies?
Every penny. Eat Well to Excel's administrative costs are covered by funding from the Ministry of Children & Youth Services.
Can I make a direct donation to my favourite nutrition program?
Certainly. However, to receive an income tax receipt from Eat Well to Excel, the cheque must be made out to: Eat Well to Excel – United Way.
Is Eat Well to Excel a United Way agency?
No. Eat Well to Excel is an independent organization that does its own fundraising.
What is Breakfast For Learning?
Breakfast For Learning supports programs with resources and provides grants to numerous programs.
How does Eat Well To Excel receive funding?
The Ministry of Children and Youth Services support nutrition programs throughout Ontario. Money is allocated to all programs under the Eat Well To Excel umbrella. Eat Well To Excel also fundraises through corporate, public and private sectors.
