In a major step forward in the fight against food insecurity in the North, a significant investment has jest been announced in a collaboration between the GNWT and the Government of Canada.
Gathered at the Mildred Hall School in Yellowknife was NWT Member of Parliament Michael McLeod, Minister Caitlin Cleveland, and Minister Jenna Sudds through virtual attendance. Together, they announced that through the National School Food Program, the Federal Government will be investing $7.4 million over the course of the next three years to the food supplies of northern schools by expanding on the “Healthy Food for Learning” program.
MP McLeod said that this announcement is “part of a promise to children all across the North, and all across Canada. It is one that will help them as they learn, grow, and become the leaders of tomorrow.
“As a Northern part of Canada, these enhancements are very significant in our communities and will provide students with access to more consistent and nutritious meals at school. This will help ensure that more than eight thousand in all corners of the Northwest Territories have a robust school program and have a chance to reach their full potential.”
This investment will be going towards all 49 schools in the Territory. It will work on purchasing new equipment for school kitchens, hiring new staff who are dedicated to school food programming, and improving the quality of the food that is served.
Jenna Sudds, the federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, spoke on the benefits that a proper diet can have on a student’s performance.
“When kids are hungry, they have a harder time focusing on learning. Their energy levels, math, reading, problem solving skills are all negatively impacted. To reach their full potential, they need a full belly. We know that school food programs work to help improve behaviour, school attendance, and to achieve higher grades.”
The National School Food Program is designed to provide a safety net for the students that need the most help, as children living in the North and in Indigenous communities can face unique challenges when it comes to food security.
The GNWT is hoping to be able to have this investment take its full effect later this year.
