The Farm to School Manitoba Healthy Choice Fundraiser (FSMHCF) is now open to all licensed child care facilities and schools grades K-12 in Manitoba.
Sponsored by the Province of Manitoba, Manitoba Association of Home Economists (MAHE) and Peak of the Market, FSMHCF gives schools and daycares the opportunity to fundraise by selling bundles of locally grown potatoes, carrots, onions, parsnips and cabbage in $10 or $20 bundles, with schools and daycares retaining 50 per cent of total sales.
The program started as a pilot in 2010 with 66 schools participating. Last year, 268 schools participated from across Manitoba, and this year, FSMHCF’s goal is to register 475 schools and daycares and distribute 1.2 million pounds of vegetables to families and communities across Manitoba.
“We’re pleased to partner with Peak of the Market and the Manitoba Association of Home Economists on this important initiative,” said Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs Minister Jim Rondeau. “Teaching children the importance of healthy, nutritious foods will help them develop good eating habits and grow into healthy adults.”
Larry McIntosh, President & CEO, Peak of the Market said, “Peak’s 40 Manitoba Family Farms are committed to supplying locally grown veggies for this great fundraiser. We will also deliver the vegetable orders for free by truck, train or plane, regardless of where the school or daycare is located in Manitoba.”
“As a daycare centre, we are thrilled to be able to offer something different to our families, that is healthy and not your typical fundraiser,” said Kim Belshe of Sunny Mountain Daycare. “As a non-profit organization, we look towards our fundraising dollars to enhance our quality programs and offer our children a more enriched experience.”
“As a UNESCO associated school, we really appreciate the fact that we are supporting local businesses and promoting a healthy alternative both at the same time, “said Lise Lépine from École Munroe Junior High.
Orders will be accepted starting September 12, 2012, for FSMHCF to all schools and daycares in Manitoba.
For more information or to enroll in the Farm to School Manitoba Healthy Choice Fundraiser, visit www.farmtoschoolmanitoba.ca.
