The Benefactor: The Northumberland United Way
Northumberland Food For Thought and its 40 member schools in Northumberland County will benefit from a $5,000 Community Impact Grant provided by Northumberland United Way (NUW).
This grant will provide a discount on food items ordered via an online platform that enables schools to purchase food for their nutrition programs at affordable prices. The online store, created in 2019 by the Central East Student Nutrition Program, features food items that meet the nutrition guidelines set out by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, ensuring students have access to healthy food choices.
During COVID-19, the online food-ordering platform has also been invaluable to limit the need for in-person shopping during the public health crisis.
“Student Nutrition Programs generally operate on tight budgets, so this grant will really help schools stretch their food dollars,” says Beth Kolisnyk, Community Development Coordinator with Northumberland Food for Thought. “We are so grateful for the NUW grant. Without community support, we could not offer school programs the kind of financial support they desperately need.”
All student nutrition programs in Northumberland are free and voluntary, providing food to students every day to ensure they attend school well-nourished and ready to learn.
“Last year, over 6,000 students in Northumberland County benefited from a breakfast, lunch, or snack program at school,” says Sarah Tsang, Acting Chair of Northumberland Food For Thought and a Registered Dietitian with the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit. “This online platform means that schools can purchase more healthy food more often, ensuring that students start their day off right – fueled for success. Establishing healthy eating habits early is key to optimizing lifelong health and well-being.”
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