A proper breakfast plays an important part in helping to maximize a student’s developmental potential.
That’s why volunteer groups like Sundre Nutrition for Learning Society, which is in part funded by the Breakfast Club of Canada, invest time and effort to ensure students are not distracted by a growling belly as they go to class.
The society delivers programs at both Sundre High School and River Valley School, the former providing daily breakfast and the latter making available healthy snacks three times a week, said executive director Carla Valentine.
Fully funded through donations and grants, the society every day on average feeds at least 100 high school students, representing roughly a third of the school’s population. At River Valley, all 650 students are offered snacks, said Valentine, adding the budgeted cost per breakfast and snack breaks down to about $1.50 each.
Although the annual amount donated by the Breakfast Club of Canada fluctuates a bit every year, Valentine said the society generally receives roughly $4,000.
“Our high school program falls within their criteria,” she said, adding a group must serve a daily meal to be eligible for the funding.
“They give us great support,” she said.
The club has also previously provided the society with some equipment, including kitchen supplies such as reusable containers, as well as egg coupons, she said, adding those are cashed in at the local grocery store.
“We buy as much as we can through IGA,” she said.
The society has recently been busy getting ready for another school year, and Valentine said additional helping hands are always welcome.
“Volunteers are the backbone of our program,” she said.
“They help prepare all the snacks.”
Amanda Boadi, programs advisor for Breakfast Club of Canada in Alberta, said campaigning efforts raise the funds donated to groups like the Nutrition for Learning Society.
“We also try to offer training and resources to help schools along,” said Boadi, praising Valentine’s effort to liaise and coordinate with the high school to deliver the daily breakfast.
“Our basic criteria is that it’s universally accessible, so any student who wants a breakfast can ask for one,” she said.
“We don’t want kids going hungry at school.”
Menus are posted on the school’s front doors so students know what to expect, and Boadi said the program has a positive side effect of stirring up a bit of a buzz that creates a social atmosphere that enriches the students’ experience. Based on feedback received, she added that in some instances, there are even students who are that much more enticed to come to school.
According to a press release, there were 151 programs supported by the Breakfast Club of Canada last year, with an additional 24 that were poised to launch with the new school year.
“The Breakfast Club of Canada is working to fundraise across the province and create awareness to ensure no child is left hungry during their studies,” reads a part of the statement.
“Every dollar goes towards a healthy and hearty breakfast for kids to start their day.”
As part of the fundraising campaign, Walmart stores across the country will be accepting donations until Friday, Oct. 4.
Anyone who is interested in getting involved locally can reach Valentine by email at [email protected], or alternatively leave a message at the Greenwood Neighbourhood Place office by calling 403-638-1011.
“Our coordinators really appreciate all the help they can get from our volunteers,” she said.
Additionally, the group’s annual general meeting is coming up on Tuesday, Oct. 8, and Valentine said new board members are being sought.
Visit www.sundrenutrition.com and www.breakfastclubcanada.org for more information about the groups.
