The BC School Fruit and Vegetable Nutrition Program is a province-wide program that is aimed at improving children’s health.
Ecole Phoenix Middle School’s 650 students have been the recipients of B.C.-grown vegetables and fruits for the past two years, with delivery of a healthy fruit or vegetable serving to our students approximately twice a month. This is a program by ActNow BC which is administered through the BC Agriculture in the Classroom foundation, a non-profit association dedicated to working with educators to bring BC’s agriculture to students.
“We know that children who eat fruits and vegetables daily have an increased ability to concentrate, a lower risk of disease, maintain healthier eating habits, while contributing to the sustainability of rural communities and economics. Our students have embraced the opportunity to try new and familiar fruits and vegetables and the delivery day is always a big hit. Trays of washed fruits and vegetables are delivered to classes with the help of our students in the Skills for Life Program and students are encouraged to eat their snack during class time.”
Ecole Phoenix School also provides a breakfast program and hot lunch program for our students requiring a healthy meal. Their food programs are supported by funding from Community Links and we feel very fortunate to be able to provide opportunities for healthy food choices for our students in need.
Parents, teachers, support staff and School Board Office staff have been managing the breakfast program to date, but we are really looking for support from a community member to organize and facilitate the delivery of the program. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Cathy Manson at 250-287-8346.