Help kids start the day off right

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This article was published 24/03/2017 (3308 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

It’s hard to make the most of a school day on an empty stomach.

That’s why the East Kildonan Lions Club is organizing a fundraising dinner on April 8 to benefit breakfast programs at John Pritchard School (1490 Henderson Hwy.) and Kent Road School (361 Kent Rd.).

“It’s something in the area that’s struggling,” said Sheryl Rositis, secretary for the East Kildonan Lions. “It’s about getting more involved in schools in the area.”

In 2016, the EK Lions held a bud, spud, and prime rib dinner, raising almost $2,000 for the breakfast program at John Pritchard School.

“Everyone had a whole lot of fun,” Rositis said. “We’re hoping this year we’ll do a little better.”

John Pritchard School’s breakfast program feeds between 30 and 35 students a day, explained Todd Schulz, a resource teacher and breakfast program co-ordinator at the school. That’s up from the 10 to 12 students when it started a few years ago.

“It’s turned into something that’s part of school life here,” Schulz said.

Kids come to school 20 minutes before the first bell, and enjoy a light breakfast prepared by staff and volunteers.

“Every breakfast consists of a whole grain, two pieces of fruit and a dairy product,” Schulz explained. “Once a week we’ll try to do something a little more special, like a fruit smoothie or pancakes or waffles.”

Apart from filling their stomachs to start the day, Schulz said the school has noticed an improvement in tardiness and absenteeism.

“For the kids, it’s a nice social opportunity,” Schulz said. “Prior to program, kids didn’t really realize there were other kids in the same situation. They’re seeing other kids in the breakfast program, so it’s been a nice opportunity to build friendships. It strengthens the school’s community.

“The program has helped take away the stigma of being hungry.”

Funding for John Pritchard’s breakfast program comes from a variety of sources. About half comes from the Child Nutrition Council of Manitoba.

“We get a sizable grant from them,” Schulz said. “They’ve been excellent in supporting the program.”

The rest comes from individual donations, and from organizations like the Lions.

“Fundraising is a perpetual thing,” Schulz said, adding that the upcoming Lions event will help them finish their year off, and hopefully help put some money aside to get started again in the fall.

“The more involvement we can get from the community, the better,” said Schulz. “This is helping the kids feel connected to people.”

The East Kildonan Lions Club fundraising dinner takes place on April 8 at 180 Poplar Ave. from 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $25. Along with dinner, there will be a silent auction and a 50/50 draw. For tickets, contact Sheryl Rositis at 204-663-0082.

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