High food costs have increased the numbers of students using the Hastings and Prince Edward Learning Foundation’s Food for Learning program.
It provide students with nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and snacks each school day.
Foundation Executive Director Kellie Brace said students can’t learn properly with empty stomachs.
“But student nutrition programs are about more than just food – they help students stay engaged in their learning, they help increase the students’ sense of belonging.”
Meanwhile, the foundation’s chair Geoff Cudmore asked council for $75,000 a year for five years to sustain and hopefully grow Food for Learning.
“Without your support we may not be able to fully fund programs and even now we have to limit the amount of food we provide so no second helpings, decrease the size of portions, half a bagel often, not a full bagel.”
Food for Learning is used by around 2,700 students in Belleville alone.
Council will consider the funding request during budget discussions.
