Statistics Canada says that one in five children in B.C. are growing up in poverty.

That is higher than the national average, as every day 4,500 school aged children in the Central Okanagan are at risk of going to school hungry.

碍别濒辞飞苍补91裸聊视频檚 aims to change that statistic, with the support of a Telus Community Grant.

The non-profit Hope for the Nations took over operation of 碍别濒辞飞苍补91裸聊视频檚 Food for Thought program starting in the 2017-18 school year.

The program aims to eliminate hunger, one child at a time by providing free breakfast in 30 schools to 1,500 school aged children a day throughout the Central Okanagan.

91裸聊视频淲e know empty stomachs limit children91裸聊视频檚 ability to reach their full potential personally, academically and socially,91裸聊视频� said Patricia Phillips, executive director of Hope for the Nations.

91裸聊视频淲e91裸聊视频檙e excited to be able to partner with the Central Okanagan Public Schools on this program to help support education and learning by ensuring students aren91裸聊视频檛 attending school hungry.91裸聊视频�

While the program relies heavily on public charitable support, the volunteer supporters of this initiative have also made a huge impact.

Volunteering one hour of time provides 50 breakfasts. Food for Thought provides half of its food to schools through donations and reclaimed food, valued at $125,000 per year.

Reclaiming food also helps to reduce wasted food (30 to 50 per cent of food that is produced is wasted) and increases access for those in need. The other half of food is purchased with funds received from grants, donations, and sponsors.

The formal presentation of the Telus grant to Hope for the Nations will take place Dec. 5, 8:30 a.m., at New Life Church in Kelowna, 2041 Harvey Ave. The grant will be used to supplement the feeding program and provide necessary equipment and required supplies.

Hope for the Nations is hoping to raise further funding for the local program through their upcoming , to be launched Dec. 1. The campaign will invite supporters to Freeze Hunger by sponsoring the program on a yearly, monthly, or per child basis.

To report a typo, email: edit@kelownacapnews.com.

barry.gerding@blackpress.ca
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