Guidance counselor Phoebe Cameron made an impassioned plea for funds at the Jan. 25 municipal council meeting and received unanimous support for the program.
She says the need for a breakfast program at the school has grown dramatically and significantly over the past year.
“It’s kind of blown us away. Basically we’ve been caught off guard. I’m sure this trend reflects the economic downturn globally as well as locally in our lobster industry,” she said.
Some students are coming to school every day already hungry with no lunch money and no lunch, she added.
“As the school guidance counselor it’s disheartening to see these kids struggling. They’re still coming to school. They’re still persevering. I have to ask the question, how many of us in this room as adults could go on day after day putting in their work schedule, carrying on with their life activities, without eating till supper?” asked Cameron.
She has heard students complaining of headaches and witnessed their lack of energy and motivation. She says the feelings of frustration and despair are apparent.
Although the application deadline for provincial funding for breakfast programs for 2009 has already passed, the committee does have opportunities in place for next year. A $1,500 toastmaker has been donated, as well as $1,000 in funding.
More funding, estimated at $1,000/month is required for the interim.
“At this point we are looking for volunteers, food donations, monthly donations, one-time donations. We’d be appreciative of any type of sponsorship,” said Cameron.
At the end of her presentation council approved a motion to provide $3,000 for the Breakfast for Learning Program at BMHS to be shared proportionately from the Community Grants Fund.
Breakfast on the menu at BMHS
Breakfast on the menu at BMHS
By Carla Allen THE COAST GUARD NovaNewsNow.com Barrington Municipal High School students in need will soon be starting their day with a full belly thanks to the hard work of the Breakfast for Learning Program committee.
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