That's because the meal is the launch of the 100th Breakfast for Kids program in Peel.
But program coordinator Sharon Harper says there's still a huge need for the initiative in the Region.
Started 15 years ago in one school, students in the program get a free breakfast before class a few times a week. The meal includes such things as cereal, whole wheat bread, English muffins, yogurt, and fruit juices.
"They're (students) getting a much better start to the day with this program," Harper said.
“It gives students one less thing to worry about so they can keep their focus on the day ahead," added Plowman's Park Principal Kathy Spence.
Harper said the program is growing fastest in high schools where some students are out on their own and unable to provide a healthy breakfast for themselves.
Another need for the program stems from the Region's mix of population. Harper cited single parents, parents who work double jobs, work for or below minimum wage as among those who need a helping hand.
"It's unfortunate that we have to do something like this but it's good that we do it," she added.
The program began at Havenwood public school 15 years ago, where the school staff were sometimes feeding their students. Harper then worked to establish a co-ordinated breakfast program at the school and the initiative has since grown to encompass all of Peel.
She said the program is open to all students and many just come for the novelty of the free breakfast for the first little while. But she found that, "the ones that desperately needed it continued to arrive."
Funding for the program comes from community support, and a major sponsor is the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth Services. The government recently allocated $32 million in funding over the next three years for a student nutrition program. Aside from that, Harper networks with businesses in an effort to get reduced rates for products.
dkurek@mississauga.net
