The Ottawa Network for Education’s School Breakfast Program held a fundraiser in partnership with 1125@Carleton early on Thursday, Feb. 11, with Mayor Jim Watson turning out to show his support.
Half of the ticket proceeds from the Breakfast for Breakfast event went to support the breakfast program, which is active in 177 Ottawa schools.
“I think everyone’s mother said it was the most important meal of the day, as did mine,” said Watson. “It just gets you off to a good start. You have to realize how fortunate we are that we have access to a good healthy breakfast and a lot of kids don’t, and that affects their ability to learn and concentrate and behave during the day.”
Carolyn Hunter, director of the School Breakfast Program, says it’s critical not to turn any students away.
“It’s really important for us to offer a non-stigmatizing, warm and welcome environment, so the program is open to all students…It really makes it an inclusive and supportive way to start your morning.”
Cathy Edwards, managing director of 1125@Carleton, said breakfast is key to the success of students.
“I love breakfast. From a nutritional point of view there’s been a lot of research to show that if you start off with a good breakfast, that your mind works better. You’re able to be more alert in school, you have energy to participate, to play, to be active.
“Personally I also believe that breakfast is really important because you start the day off by taking the time…You take that time to ground yourself and to start your day from a place of mindfulness and purpose.”
1125@Carleton focuses on being an “interface between campus and community,” which is why it was interested in hosting the event.
According to Hunter, this is the first time the Breakfast Program has held a Breakfast for Breakfast event on a university campus.
“As students, you remember what it’s like to study on an empty stomach,’’ she said. “So you can really imagine what that must be like for kids, and you know how much work it takes to succeed in school… I think it’s really important and really commendable that students are getting involved and helping other students in Ottawa.’’
Thursday, February 11, 2016 in Miscellaneous
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