Students at Pender Harbour Secondary School gather in the foods room to grab a bite to eat before heading to class. The hot breakfast program has become an important part of high school life where between 20 to 35 students share a morning meal (or grab-and-go) before they start their school day.
When Telus heard about it they were keen to lend some support.
“At TELUS we take our philosophy to Give Where We Live to heart, and specifically focus our community giving on empowering our youngest generations,” said Lisa LaMothe, general manager for the Sunshine Coast. “The first step to a successful day of learning is a nutritious breakfast and we are happy to help ensure every child in our community has a full tummy before they start the school day.”
“Breakfast is the most important meal as it sets the stage for the entire day,” added Katherine Purnell.
As a registered holistic nutritionist, Purnell understands that what you eat directly impacts your mood, energy level, brain function and appetite.
“Eating breakfast really does help students learn,” she said. “After fasting all night a developing brain needs a fresh supply of glucose and protein — the brain’s basic fuel.”
She suggests a portion of protein like eggs and a bit of fruit is a good meal to help carry a student through the day.
In addition to ensuring that students have the fuel they need to start their day, the program also aims at providing social and learning opportunities.
“It’s about building good relationships with and between the students, inside the school and outside too,” added Purnell. “Students are encouraged to make this food program their own by as assisting with food preparation, helping with serving and doing clean-up.”
Earlier this year the Community School received a $5,000 donation from Telus, which will allow them to expand the program from three to four days/week, to offer a greater variety of nutrition options, and to expand its provision of food in other food programs for children.
