On Monday, March 24, 2025, students and staff at Notre Dame Catholic Elementary School crunched down on Ontario-grown apples to raise awareness about the importance of healthy food in schools. For almost 20 years, the school's breakfast program has warmly welcomed students
with nutritious food to start their day.
“Student Nutrition Programs create a more inclusive and caring school environment,” says Sherri Slade-Brady, principal of Notre Dame Catholic Elementary School in Cobourg. “They ensure that all students have access to healthy food, supporting their learning, well-being, and long-term success.”
“Our community and school boards have been long-time supporters of local student nutrition programs. Northumberland County’s first two breakfast programs started in 1992, and today, all publicly funded schools in the county offer healthy food at school,” says Kimberly Leadbeater,
Registered Dietitian with the HKNP District Health Unit and Chair of Northumberland Food For Thought. “School food programs are linked to positive impacts on children’s mental health, behavior, and ability to learn.”
“The dedicated staff and volunteers who prepare the food are the heart of these programs,” says Beth Kolisnyk, Community Development Coordinator for Northumberland County’s student nutrition programs. “Every day, across the county, school staff and volunteers work tirelessly to
ensure students have access to the food they need to thrive at school.”
A special thank-you goes to Northumberland County Food 4 All for providing 180 apples from Moore Orchards in Cobourg, Ontario!
Along with the support of residents, businesses, and organizations, local Student Nutrition Programs also receive financial support from the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services through its lead local agency, Peterborough Child and Family Centres.
We extend our sincere thanks to the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board and the Peterborough, Victoria, Northumberland, and Clarington Catholic District School Board for their continued commitment to supporting Student Nutrition Programs in their schools.