Manitoba Announces New School Nutrition Program to Support Student Health and Well-Being
The province of Manitoba has recently announced a new school nutrition program that aims to support the health and well-being of students across the province. This program, which is set to launch in the upcoming school year, will provide nutritious meals and snacks to students in need.
According to Education Minister Cliff Cullen, this initiative is a crucial step towards ensuring that all students have access to healthy and balanced meals during their school day. He stated, “We know that proper nutrition is essential for students to thrive academically and physically. This program will help to address food insecurity and support the overall well-being of our students.”
The program will be available to all students in kindergarten to grade 12, with a focus on schools in low-income and remote communities. It will be funded by the provincial government, with an investment of $5 million in the first year and $2.5 million in the following years.
The meals and snacks provided through this program will meet the nutritional standards set by Health Canada and will be prepared on-site by trained staff. The menu will include a variety of options, including vegetarian and culturally appropriate meals.
This announcement has been met with positive reactions from educators and health professionals. Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief provincial public health officer, emphasized the importance of proper nutrition for children’s growth and development. He stated, “This program will not only support students’ physical health but also their mental health and academic success.”
The Manitoba School Nutrition Program is a significant step towards addressing food insecurity and promoting the well-being of students in the province. It aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, specifically Goal 2, which aims to end hunger, achieve food security, and improve nutrition. With this program, Manitoba is taking a proactive approach to support the health and success of its students.
