Funding to help feed hungry students

Published 2:00pm 12 September 2024

A number of schools across Moreton Bay will roll out free breakfast and lunch programs to help feed students who arrive on empty stomachs, with the State Government expanding its School and Community Relief program.

A total of $6.8 million has been allocated to the program this year with the State Government announcing a further 400 schools state-wide have received funding to provide fresh and nutritious meals to kids in need.

This brings the total number of schools involved to 499, with the program prioritised to communities experiencing high cost of living pressures and food insecurity.

Education Minister Di Farmer says eating a good breakfast will help kids succeed in the classroom.

“Kids do better at school with a full stomach and its initiatives like our School and Community Food Relief Program that help deliver healthy food options to students in communities doing it tough,” she says.

“Together with our Student Wellbeing package, which provides access to mental health professionals and GPs in schools, the State Government is helping families to support their children’s health and wellbeing without increasing the pressure on family budgets.”

Bray Park State High School Principal Peter Turner says students and staff are thrilled to take part in the breakfast program.

"The students love coming before school to enjoy a nutritious breakfast to start the day," Peter says.

"Since the inception of the program earlier this year, students have been arriving to school on time, seem happier in class, and are able to focus better on their learning.

"I want to thank the staff who volunteer their time before school to ensure the program can run, especially our chaplain Hannah Bongers and teacher aide Grace Astillero, who co-ordinate it.

"Special thanks also goes to the YMCA Schools’ Breakfast Program for their continued support of this great initiative.”