Government funding of $200,000 annually for school breakfast program is complemented by local donations, fundraising and support from provincial and national organizations says Education, Early Learning and Culture Minister Doug Currie.
“Whether through volunteers, fundraising or donations, community support is the backbone of school breakfast and snack programs,” said Minister Currie. “We thank all our community partners for their generous support and all our volunteers who donate their time to help provide nutritious food for Island students.”
Provincial government funding for school breakfast programs has doubled this year to $200,000, supporting breakfast and snack programs in 90 per cent of Island schools and alternative education programs.
This school year, the PEI Healthy Eating Alliance, which is jointly funded by the Departments of Education, Early Learning and Culture and Health and Wellness, has helped secure a number of increased community supports, including:
• $20,000 from the PEI Egg Farmers for school programs for eggs and egg storage/cooking equipment;
• Subsidized milk purchases for all breakfast programs courtesy of the PEI School Milk Foundation;
• $3,000 from the Clarke-Smith Foundation to fund a workshop for breakfast program coordinators – teachers, school staff, and volunteers;
• $2,500 from the Western Region – Sport & Recreation Council for West Prince schools;
• $1,250 from Farm Credit Canada; and
• $1,000 from Vector Aerospace.
National organizations such as Breakfast for Learning and Breakfast Club of Canada also provide funding to some schools.
“Over 600 volunteers provide 24,300 breakfasts or snacks to 8,000 students each week, so that students can learn positive nutrition habits and come to class prepared to fulfill their potential,” said Minister Currie. “It is great to see everyone working together to provide healthy foods and beverages, so students can start their day off right.”
To learn more about healthy school communities, visit http://www.gov.pe.ca/healthyschoolcommunities/">