SASKATOON – The Saskatchewan Teachers’ Federation is partnering with Food Banks of Saskatchewan for a Food to Learn campaign.
Launched last year, Food to Learn helped raise over $71,000 for food banks in 36 communities across the province.
While food bank donations slow down during the summer months, the need remains, particularly for children. Forty per cent of food bank users are under 18 and do not have access to school-based nutrition programs in July and August. Food to Learn aims to fill that gap, raise awareness of the issue and help ensure no child goes hungry, according to the STF.
“There is a significant amount of data that shows a very clear link between access to nutritious food and student learning outcomes,” says STF President Samantha Becotte.
“During the school year, it is not uncommon to hear of teachers buying students breakfast or lunch out of their own pockets. While this is a kind gesture, it shouldn’t be the norm – no child should ever have to learn on an empty stomach. Food banks play an important role in our communities and we’re proud to support this work again this year with Food to Learn.”
The fundraising goal for this round of Food to Learn is $44,000 – representing the 44,000 people who use food banks in Saskatchewan each month. STF has donated $20,000 to kick off the campaign. Last year, staff donated over 900 pounds of food and contributed 65 volunteer hours at the Saskatoon Food Bank and will be engaging in volunteer opportunities once again throughout July and August.
“We know families are facing challenges putting food on the table. Food banks across Canada are anticipating further increases in food bank usage due to ever-rising food prices,” says Michael Kincade, Executive Director for Food Banks of Saskatchewan.
“We are grateful to partner with the STF again to raise awareness of the growing need for donations and food bank services for students and families in our communities.”
Members of the public are encouraged to donate to Food to Learn via the Food Banks of Saskatchewan website. These funds will be used to deliver services for students and families in every corner of the province.
