Media release from Every Child Counts

Every Child Counts Supports Community Campaign for Food in Schools

The new Community Campaign for Food in Schools launches today to  promote debate about the best ways to implement food in schools, as recommended by the Expert Advisory Group on Solutions to Child Poverty in December 2012.  The campaign is supported by a wide range of community and faith-based organisations, including Every Child Counts*.

“With 270,000 children living in poverty, and an estimated 80,000 going to school hungry, this is an issue requiring concerted political, business and community effort.  The Community Campaign for Food in Schools will promote discussion and action in the interests of these children,” says Deborah Morris-Travers, Every Child Counts Manager.

The Community Campaign for Food in Schools calls on all MPs to support the Education (Breakfast and Lunch in Schools) Amendment Bill when it comes up for debate in Parliament in early June.  The Bill, also known as the ‘Feed the Kids Bill’ is sponsored by Hone Harawira MP.

“We all know it’s not good enough for children to have their health and education undermined by hunger.  Children themselves say they want food in schools.  Food in schools is a practical, child-centred measure that can also support curriculum learning, build community, and educate Mums and Dads about nutrition. 

“Government, businesses, schools and their communities working together to provide healthy food in schools would make it clear that our society cares for its children. It would demonstrate in a practical way that our children are central to our thinking about the future", concludes Ms Morris-Travers. 

ENDS

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