(submitted by Nick Mattatall)
Schools in Moncton’s west end have launched a temporary mobile food program for students, while they have at home learning.
Principal for Bessborough School Nick Mattatall says with schools closed it means increased nutrition challenges for some families.
They’ve partnered with Hillcrest and Bernice MacNaughton High School and are offering pickups on Tuesdays and Fridays, “there are some other schools who may be finding it a little bit tight. If people can reach out to their local school Principal or Home and School Association to see what the needs are in each community, that would probably be greatly appreciated. Some schools are also operating full lunch programs where the kids can pick up bagged lunches as well.”
Mattatall says, “The last couple of weeks with schools closed, families are also facing extra daycare bills or loss of work because someone has to look after their kids, so this helps bridge the grocery bill a little bit for them and makes sure the kids have what they need.”
Staff and volunteers are handing out the bagged lunches and breakfasts on Tuesday and Friday at several locations during the CUPE NB strike, Prince Edward Park, Hillcrest school, Bessborough School, Rosewood Community on Salisbury Road and White Frost community on Salisbury Road.
“Kids show up, and pick up their bags. We put together a bag based on their dietary needs and preferences and they can take the bag home with them. If there is an Edith Cavell family or from another school that is within walking distance of our pickup, we just want our kids to be fed. If someone is hungry, come see us we’ll make sure they have something to eat,” Mattatall says.
Food is donated or purchased with monetary donations received from local businesses and parents.
