Food for Thought program gets a boost

The Chestermere Firefighters provided a lot more than just food for thought for Chestermere students. Through the 1st annual Firefighters Gala held in October and the launch of their all new 2014 calendar campaign, the fundraising group was able to present a cheque in the amount of $15,000 to the Rocky View Schools breakfast program.
Barb Holden, Assistant Principal at Prairie Water Elementary was on hand November.18 to accept the cheque on behalf of the school district which was presented by members of Chestermere’s Fire Services. “Words fail me as to how to express appreciation for what the firefighters did,” says a very grateful Holden.
According to their website, Rocky View Schools’ recognizes the importance of daily nutrition and believes that healthy eating is a key component in achieving success. Research has proven the link between healthy eating and student learning and performance.
Food For Thought is collaboration within the RVS communities to provide a food program partnering health, schools and community. Food For Thought is a non-profit organization, full funded by grants, donations, volunteers, and in-kind services.
Currently, this volunteer run program is offered in Chestermere Middle School and Rainbow Creek Elementary. It provides students with a nutritious breakfast in a secure environment to help them concentrate and improve their ability to learn, while supporting a positive classroom environment for students and teachers.
Although Prairie Waters has not previously offered the same level of program to its students, Holden explains that the school does have food available to any student that might need a snack and it is not limited to breakfast. “Our students know that if they need a snack we will provide them one,” says Holden, who goes on to explain, “We are excited to expand this program within our school to offer even more supportive food opportunities that focus on nutrition in a way we have been able to in the past.”
The principal says that in response to the new funds raised by our local hero’s – her school can begin to put together a committee that will look at ways to better serve the needs of the students. “Unfortunately, the reality is that we have a lot of students with unmet needs – some short term and some long term – so now we can better focus on meeting those needs.”
“It’s incredible that a difference a piece of fruit can make – it provides a real advantage to children,” adds Holden.
The Chestermere Firefighters still have calendars available for sale and they make a nice stocking stuffer. Each month features one of Chestermere’s very own firefighters. Calendars are $20 and are available for purchase at Town Hall.