Celebrating National Nutrition Month:
Fueling Students for Success
Every year in March, Canadians across the country celebrate National Nutrition Month. This year’s theme is Nourish to Flourish and celebrates the “transformative role that food and nutrition play in our lives.”
National Nutrition Month is a time to highlight the importance of nourishing our bodies and minds. For many students across Edmonton Public Schools, having access to proper nutrition at school isn’t just important — it’s essential to their ability to learn, focus, and thrive.
Across our community, many families struggle with food insecurity and the ability to ensure consistent, nutritious food for their growing children. That’s why the Edmonton Public Schools Foundation is committed to supporting school nutrition through Top-ups for Tummies, providing students with access to the food they need to succeed.
Nutrition Support That Changes Lives
The Top-ups for Tummies program, alongside other school nutrition initiatives, ensures that thousands of students in Edmonton have access to healthy meals and snacks each day. Whether it’s a nutritious breakfast or an afternoon snack, these programs step up, providing essential support families can count on.
Principals across the Division have seen firsthand the impact that this support makes:
“When students start their day with the nutrition they need, and full tummies, they are better set up for learning and success. With this funding, many of our families with food insecurities feel safe and supported asking for our assistance providing this essential food need.”
– Ronali Ferguson, Principal, Belvedere School
The Power of a Nourished Student
Providing nutritious food isn’t just about filling tummies - it’s about unlocking student potential. Teachers and staff across our Division recognize how a simple meal can transform a student’s day, improving focus, engagement, and overall well-being.
“The Top-ups for Tummies program has made a significant difference in our school community. It has helped provide healthy snacks in the morning to students in need, ensuring they are ready to learn and engage throughout the day.”
– Sheri Tchir, Principal, Edith Rogers School
“It allows the school to be able to say, ‘don’t worry, we got you - we support you’ without having to try to figure out where the funds will come from. Full bellies set the stage for focused learning, and every child should have that opportunity.
– Jodean Gagne, Principal, LaPerle School
Extending Beyond the Classroom
For many students, food insecurity extends beyond the classroom. A reliable source of nutritious meals at school can provide much-needed stability, comfort, and a sense of community for students and their families.
“The gift of food security is like magic for our students. Beyond academics, food security plays a critical role in students’ emotional and social development. Providing food security helps students build strong relationships, manage stress effectively, and develop resilience. For students facing hardships at home, a reliable source of healthy food at school provides comfort and stability, reinforcing the message that the school is a safe and supportive environment.”
– Jon Paul Cooper, Principal, Westminster School
Thank You!
This National Nutrition Month, we celebrate the power of food to transform lives. Thanks to the incredible generosity of donors and supporters, the Edmonton Public Schools Foundation is making sure that students can focus on learning, not hunger.
Together, we can continue to provide the nourishment students need to thrive because every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Learn more about how you can support Top-ups for Tummies and donate today.