New Budgetary Measure - Provincial Government takes action, recognizes the importance of a healthy breakfast in fostering academic performance

QUEBEC CITY, June 22, 2018 /CNW Telbec/ - As announced in the Government of Quebec's Educational Services Strategy in January 2018, Sébastien Proulx, Minister of Education, Recreation and Sports, today confirmed that school boards will be receiving additional funding to serve breakfast in primary schools located in disadvantaged communities of the province.

Through this new budgetary measure, the government is not only making it possible to expand the school meal program to ensure an even greater number of children have an equal chance at success but is also recognizing the importance of a healthy breakfast in fostering academic performance.

Currently active in 312 schools and benefiting from the expertise gained over the past 23 years, Breakfast Club of Canada is eager to work with the school communities in partnership, to implement breakfast programs in more than 400 new schools. The Club is ready to accommodate the additional demand.

"This is a big day for the Club, the partners, contributors and numerous donors who have been speaking up, and stepping forward for the past 23 years. We greet this announcement with great pride and enthusiasm," stated Breakfast Club of Canada Founding President Daniel Germain.

Breakfast Club of Canada's core philosophy is that children deserve to start the school day with a nutritious breakfast in an inclusive, caring environment. Over the years, the Club has helped shed light on the positive impacts and outcomes of school meal programs.

"We would like to express our heartfelt thanks to all those who have supported and continue to support Breakfast Club of Canada," added Mr. Germain. "Their commitment has made a difference for hundreds of thousands of children across Quebec."

He concluded by saying, "In taking action today, the government of Quebec is acknowledging that food security and balanced nutrition are a priority for our children. Neither the public sector nor the private sector can win this fight alone. By joining forces today, we will be giving kids the best possibility for success and helping them live up to their full potential. Together, we can make it happen."

Key Facts and Figures

• Breakfast Club of Canada currently supports 312 breakfast programs in Quebec.
• More than 3,332,500 breakfasts were served during this past school year by Club-supported programs.
• Over 20,000 children enjoy a wholesome morning meal every school day thanks to Breakfast Club of Canada.
• The Club's volunteer base is now 3,500 strong.

What Our Partners Have to Say

Pierre Riel, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Eastern Canada Region, Costco Canada
"As the chair of the Breakfast Club of Canada Board of Directors, I am overjoyed with today's announcement! We are proud to see the government embrace the model developed by the Club. Children are at the heart of everything we do, and we are honoured at the prospect of teaming up with the communities and schools supported by our organization."

"In my capacity as a member of the business community and the Senior Vice President and General Manager, Eastern Canada Region, Costco Canada, I have the same reaction. Quebec companies have been showing their support for the Club's mission for 23 years now. Corporate donations and sponsorships make up more than 95% of our funding, and we are tremendously grateful for them. Every initiative has contributed and will continue to contribute to identifying and meeting the needs of our kids. Today, the government is joining us in our efforts. Let's all do our part for the younger generation and help put them on the path to success!"

Isabelle Rayle-Doiron, Vice President, Public Affairs and General Counsel, Danone Canada
"As a partner of Breakfast Club of Canada for more than 20 years, Danone, whose mission is to achieve health through food on a broad a scale as possible, firmly believes that a nutritious breakfast is essential to helping children be all they can be."

"We are delighted that the Club will have access to this new and significant source of support so it can continue working toward its mission to reach out to Canadian children and do so in an even timelier manner."

About Breakfast Club of Canada

For 23 years, Breakfast Club of Canada has been committed to nurturing the potential of children by ensuring that as many as possible have access to a nutritious breakfast served in an environment that promotes their self-esteem before classes begin. Much more than a breakfast program, the Club's approach is based on commitment, self-esteem and capacity development. It partners with communities and regional organizations to establish an optimal formula adapted to local needs. Now active across Canada, the Breakfast Club helps feed over 200,000 Canadian children in 1,600 schools across the country.

SOURCE Breakfast Club of Canada

Source : Sophie Boulay, Director, Communications, Marketing and Development, Breakfast Club of Canada, Office: 450-641-3230, Mobile: [phone]; For more information : Malika Paradis, Tact Intelligence Conseil, [phone]

Related Links

www.breakfastclubscanada.org