More Than Snacks

Student Nutrition Programs (SNP) are an important part of Hamilton’s food security system. Research has demonstrated that increasing the availability of food to students from low income families where there isn’t enough has positive impacts on learning and behavior in school1. The impact of these programs in Hamilton is so large that food banks notice an increase in demand during the summer months because children and youth are no longer fed at school. The Hamilton Roundtable for Poverty Reduction has set as a top strategic priority to “Incubate and implement a universal school nutrition program for all children”, starting in priority neighbourhoods to ensure that no child leaves school hungry. The Hamilton Community Foundation engaged the Social Planning and Research Council of Hamilton (SPRC) to prepare this report to give an overview of the history of Student Nutrition Programs in Hamilton, how they operate as well as their strengths and the challenges they face. This report will be an aid for developing new strategies for addressing student hunger and a universal student nutrition program.

Publication Date: 
2010