CHILDREN IN NOVA SCOTIA NEED OUR HELP
Children and youth represent one third of Nova Scotians who rely on food banks each month to help put food on the table. That’s over 7,000 hungry children, a number that’s even larger when you factor in those who are supported through meal programs. The impact of hunger and poverty on these children can be devastating. At a very basic level, hunger feels bad and no one wants children to experience that kind of discomfort.
Over time, the absence of proper nourishment also limits healthy growth and development in children. And sometimes it goes deeper. For children whose parents face the constant struggle of putting enough food on the table, hunger can have a significant emotional impact. We know from speaking with some parents that as hard as they try to shelter their children from the realities of their situation, children can often sense that something is wrong even when they don’t understand what it is.
Many of FEED NOVA SCOTIA’s programs and services are critical in helping to reduce the impact of hunger on children.
Food Distribution: For thousands of children, the ability for their family to access food through a local food bank literally means the difference between whether they eat or not. And the food banks they turn to rely on us for regular food deliveries. For every $1 we raise we are able to provide food banks across the province with enough food to feed one child for a whole day. Breakfast programs are also a regular stop for our food distribution team.
Helpline: Parents who have trouble providing sufficient food for their families often face other challenges as well. Through a 24-hour Helpline, FEED NOVA SCOTIA is there to listen and help parents work through the struggles they are facing.
Learning Kitchen: Helping families escape the cycle of poverty is the best way to keep children from experiencing hunger. Through our Learning Kitchen that’s exactly what we’re doing. This unique training program increases employment opportunities for disadvantaged adults by providing them with hands-on culinary experience and national certification.
Youth Education: A new initiative is underway at FEED NOVA SCOTIA, which features two children’s books and online resources to help educate children ages 5 to 11 about the realities of hunger and poverty and how they can make a difference. Through this project, young Nova Scotians become more informed citizens, empathetic to the needs of others.
Kidz Magic Cupboard: This program was created to engage children with food and cooking so they can share that newfound knowledge and enthusiasm at home. The program equips participants with the skills and resourcefulness needed to cook healthy, inexpensive meals for their families. Our “mini chefs” learn how to make the most out of a next-to-bare cupboard using products from the food bank and they develop an appreciation for a variety of nutritious foods.
As you can see, there is so much to be done to alleviate the strain of hunger and poverty on children. That’s why the focus for this year’s Chair-a-tea Dinner and Auction is on the programs and services that address their particular needs.
Be a part of this wonderful event so you, too, can help make life better for young Nova Scotians.
