At least 88,000 additional public school students can start their school day right, with a nutritious, free breakfast, as the state Government moves to to double the number of schools participating in Foodbank’s School Breakfast 4 Health program.
The Minns Labor Government made a commitment in the lead up to the last state election to increase the number of participating public schools to 1,000 by 2027.
It is investing $8 million in partnership with Foodbank to give public school children the best possible start to their day, with the program having grown by over a third from 500 to 676 schools in less than two years.
Every day Foodbank staff and volunteers undertake a huge logistical exercise to supply high-quality breakfast foods including milks, juices, breakfast cereals, fruits and breads, so that every child enters the classroom well-fed, energised, focused and ready to learn.
Foodbank data indicates:
Latest Stories
80 per cent of schools in the program reported an increase in attendance and;
89 per cent saw an increase in class engagement
The program improves students’ nutrition, eating habits, boosts their mental and physical health and can increase learning. Schools have also reported improvements in school attendance and engagement.
The program runs in schools across NSW, including rural and regional areas, and as the cost-of-living continues to affect many, this is one way government is helping families make ends meet.
As work continues to grow the program further, the state government has been working closely with Foodbank to simplify and accelerate the onboarding process for schools, so they can access the program as quickly and seamlessly as possible.
Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said “Parents and families are continuing to struggle with the cost-of-living, which is why this program has been so important, particularly over the past two years.
“Across NSW, thousands of students are benefitting from free breakfasts at their school every day and starting the day full of energy, and ready to learn, thanks to the hard work of Foodbank staff and volunteers.
“The Foodbank program helps ensure children are given the best chance to be ready to learn when they enter the classroom while helping families with cost-of-living pressures.”
Lalor Park Public School principal Dee Taylor said “We’re really grateful for our strong partnership with Foodbank. We have students from Preschool to Year 6 who know they can come to school and start the day with a nourishing breakfast.
“I can’t overstate the positive impact breakfast has on our students’ positive behaviour and ability to stay focused and engaged in the classroom throughout the morning.
A spokesperson told the Cowra Guardian that schools involved in the program, or planning to adopt the program by 2027 include
• Cowra Public School
• Cowra High School
• Canowindra Public School
• Canowindra High School
• Eugowra Public School
• Holmwood Public School
