Imagine trying to concentrate, when all you can think about are hunger pangs and having something to eat. This is the reality faced by many children and youth arriving at school without any food to sustain them an entire school day.
Halton Food for Thought operates 140 breakfast, healthy snack and emergency lunch programs throughout Halton Region. Programs are unique reflecting each school environment: full breakfast programs, in-class snack programs, front hallway grab-and-go stations, senior students and volunteers delivering food baskets to classes or packed lunches for students who routinely arrive at school without food. Programs are confidential, non- stigmatizing and provide a warm and welcoming environment
Child hunger in Halton?
Hunger is a reality many families face each and every day in Halton. Some have been impacted by the economic downturn, losing not only their jobs, but their homes and most sadly, their dreams. For many, turning to a social service agency was unthinkable. Now, they express thanks that our program was there to help. Hunger exists, it is merely hidden.
A simple solution to a complex problem
It is well documented when food is provided, a whole new world opens for children and youth. There is evidence of increased confidence, risk-taking, resiliency, improved social condition, better attendance, a reduction in bullying or behavioural issues and overall academic success. Although food provision may appear a simple solution to a complex problem, the impacts are astounding. One cannot underestimate the impact of hunger.
The High School Initiative
In 2011, Arcelormittal Dofasco supported a new program launched at Pearson High School in Burlington. The program engages at-risk students aged 13 – 18 years looking to leave school due to extreme poverty conditions and considered at-risk of homelessness. Students are provided meals cards allowing one healthy meal each day in the school’s cafeteria.
Throughout Halton, 480 students participate in this program. An outcome evaluation conducted in 2010 concluded of the 480 students engaged in this initiative, 89% remained in school, receiving credits toward high school graduation.
We are well aware one of the most effective ways to eliminate poverty is through a good education. Arcelormittal Dofasco’s support of the Pearson High School programs provides hope for students who would otherwise leave school. It is a meaningful contribution impacting a sector of students often forgotten and lost in a complex social service system.
It takes a Village
It’s a whole community approach. The agency receives 50% of its funding from the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services and local United Ways. The remaining 50% is raised though donations and fundraising events. Parents who can afford to pay for meals do so, while funds generated through community or corporate donations support those who cannot afford to pay for meals provided through Halton Food for Thought. Investing in this program today, will realize cost savings for many years to come, diminishing the need for costly health and social service intervention.
Author: Lena Bassford
Halton Food For Thought's mission is to inspire children and youth to make healthy food choices vital to their development by providing inclusive access to nutritious foods throughout the school day. To work with stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of and responsibility for student nutrition programs in Halton schools. Our Vision is to strive to facilitate a student nutrition program in every school thereby improving the learning capacity, health and well being of all children and youth in Halton Region.
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