The province has announced that it is investing an additional $450,000 in support of school breakfast and nutrition programs.
“These programs make it possible for children to receive nutritious breakfasts and snacks so they’re not hungry during their school day,” said Premier Greg Selinger. “This improves concentration and academic performance and leads to better behaviour in the classroom. It also raises awareness of healthy food choices for school children, parents and school staff.”
Provincial support for nutrition programs flows through the Child Nutrition Council of Manitoba (CNC). CNC is a charitable organization that works exclusively with Manitoba schools and community organizations to facilitate nutrition programs that take the focus off hunger and onto learning. The council supports more than 200 school and community-based breakfast, snack and lunch programs, serving more than 20,000 children and youth annually. Since 2001, the council has served nearly 20 million healthy breakfasts, lunches and snacks to children across the province.
“When students are well-nourished, they’re better able to succeed in school. That’s why we were elated to hear about this new funding, which will help to ensure that children and youth across Manitoba are ready to learn, grow and realize their full potential,” said Tammy Robinson, executive director, Child Nutrition Council of Manitoba. “The Manitoba government has been a beacon of light through their support to student nutrition programs in schools, and this funding will support a truly great cause: nourishing young minds.”
The CNC covers 50 to 60 per cent of the cost of new nutrition programs. Schools and school divisions are required to fund the remaining portion of the program costs.
“Our school breakfast program is all about building community and a foundation of success for our children, and meeting an important need for many of our families for a healthy, nutritious start to the school day,” said Barbara Cerilli, principal, Victory Community School. “We know this program makes a difference in the lives of children, and staff and community support has been tremendous. I’m so pleased the Manitoba government understands how to support families in need and build a foundation for future success.”
Total provincial support for the Child Nutrition Council now totals $1.3 million.
