Mr. Speaker, it was heartwarming to see the Children's Foundation of Guelph and Wellington's keep kids fed programs in action last week. I met parent volunteers and U of G nutrition students who were preparing the snacks. I spoke with a school administrator and Children's Foundation leaders.
Together with volunteers and donors, they ensure every child has reliable access to nutritious food every day, with dignity and without barriers. We had a great conversation about how federal policy directly shapes the well-being of children in my riding through initiatives like the national school nutrition program and the upcoming groceries and essentials benefit, which will help more than 18,000 people in the riding of Guelph.
While the national school nutrition program helps with the keep kids fed at school program, our community fills in the gaps and supports the keep kids fed at home program, which provides nutritious snacks for vulnerable kids during weekends and holidays.
The return on investment, whether it is social, educational or economic, is significant when every child has the food they need to thrive.
Our children definitely deserve it.