For Immediate Release

October 7, 2005

GERRETSEN ANNOUNCES STUDENT NUTRITION PROGRAM

Extra Funding, Improved Breakfast Program Provide Healthier Food For More Children And Youth

KINGSTON – This school year, 3,500 more elementary and secondary students in Kingston and The Islands are arriving at school better prepared to learn thanks to more provincial funding and a revamped student nutrition program, announced MPP John Gerretsen on behalf of Minister of Children and Youth Services Minister Mary Anne Chambers today.

“Today’s announcement is great news for Kingston area parents and children, said Gerretsen. “Good Nutrition is vital to a child’s development and well being and this program will go a long way to help make sure that our children are getting the best possible start to be successful students in the classroom.”

As part of its commitment to the health and success of Ontario children and youth, the government has nearly doubled its investment in student nutrition programs from $4.5 million in 2003/04 to the current investment of $8.5 million annually. 

“Research tells us that students who start their day with a healthy meal are more alert and focused in class,” said Children and Youth Services Minister Chambers, who unveiled details of the program on October 7, 2005.  “This is one more way the province is helping Ontario children and youth succeed and lead healthier, more productive lives.”

Under the revamped program:

* Approximately 67,000 more elementary and secondary school students are receiving a healthy breakfast, lunch or snack each school day

* More money is being spent on serving healthier foods to more students   and less on administration

*New nutrition guidelines are helping local programs provide well-balanced meals and healthy food choices to students

* Increased funding has helped local programs purchase refrigerators, freezers, kitchen and storage items so they can serve more fresh fruits and vegetables and perishable products to students

* Government funding is distributed directly to local programs through 15 lead agencies located in regions across the province

*Student nutrition programs are tailored to meet local needs by, for example, serving foods that reflect a community’s diversity.

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