It’s time to celebrate: September is BREAKFAST FOR LEARNING Month
September is BREAKFAST FOR LEARNING Month in Canada. In Hastings and Prince Edward counties, the FOOD FOR LEARNING Committee is celebrating the past and future success of nutrition programs in our schools.

FACT: Children must eat well to learn well. That’s what BREAKFAST FOR LEARNING Month is all about—spreading the message that children need to ‘Eat Right to Be Bright.’

FACT: Studies indicate that children’s capacity to learn and their nutrition are directly related. Many children arrive at school hungry every day. Children who are undernourished do not make the same intellectual and social gains in the learning environment. For some, it is hard for focus on studies when inwardly the focus is on hunger.

FACT: School nutrition programs offer nutritious food to any child who needs it. Last year, FOOD FOR LEARNING saw a significant increase in local nutrition programs in the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board, with 42 elementary and seven secondary schools providing over 3,500 nutritious breakfast and snacks to students each week. This year, with the increased awareness of the need for such programs, we expect to see additional programs.

Community involvement is an essential part of nutrition programs being successful. In Hastings and Prince Edward counties, we’ve done just that. Members of these communities have come together to ensure that nutritious food is available whenever a child needs it. Volunteers, funds, food, supplies, equipment and other donations have been provided throughout the communities. Without this dedication and support, nutrition programs would not be available in our schools.

3rd Annual Celebration Breakfast
On Saturday, September 27th, the FOOD FOR LEARNING Committee is hosting its 3rd Annual Celebration Breakfast at Harry J. Clarke Public School in Belleville, at 9:30 a.m.

Community members are invited to attend and enjoy a nutritious breakfast. The keynote speaker for this event will be Heather Williams, R.D., Registered Professional Dietician and author of healthy lifestyle cookbooks. Also attending will be Larry Langdon, Director of Education for the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board, along with FOOD FOR LEARNING volunteers, parents, school board trustees, principals, teachers, students, and representatives from local businesses, community groups and government.

Tickets and contact information
Tickets are $4 for adults and seniors, children under 12 are free if accompanied by an adult. There will be face painting and colouring for children. For tickets or more information, contact Kellie Brace, FOOD FOR LEARNING Co-Ordinator at (613) 966-9491, ext. 2232, or 1 800 267-4350, ext. 2232.