Starting the day with care at P.L. Robertson Public School
Posted: July 9, 2025
Categories: nourish to flourish / Schools
P.L. Robertson Public School
Milton, Ontario
Nestled in the heart of Halton Region, our school is home to just over 1120 students, ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 8. We are a vibrant and diverse school community where families come from a wide range of cultural, linguistic, and socio-economic backgrounds. Although the region is often seen as affluent, there are pockets within our catchment where food insecurity is a quiet but very real challenge. That’s why the Nourish to Flourish grant has made such a meaningful impact.
Before the grant, we had a snack program run by a few staff members on a volunteer basis, but it couldn’t support early morning snack because of the funding. Thanks to the grant, we were able to launch morning snack program that ensures every child starts their day with nourishment, regardless of their home situation. The shift has been transformative.
A key feature of the project is its universality—snacks are available to all students, which removes the stigma often associated with food programs. We prioritize healthy and culturally respectful options, including fruit, whole grains, and dairy alternatives. The program is uniquely enhanced by its connection to the students’ LSF grant for healthy Canadian snacks, developed in partnership with the University of Waterloo. This collaboration has allowed us to source nutritious, locally inspired snacks that align with Canadian health guidelines and celebrate regional food traditions. Students also participate in food literacy activities that connect what they eat with their health and environment, deepening their understanding and appreciation of local food systems.
Grade 8’s were the integral team members who were the heart of the program by arriving early every morning to prepare the snack station, ensuring we were ready to go. Their care and consistency have made a significant difference in the program’s success.
“The best part is everyone can have something. I don’t have to wait until lunch to stop being hungry,” says a Grade 8 student who often helps distribute snacks with a smile.
Our school has also noticed a significant improvement in student focus and mood, particularly in the earlier part of the day. Teachers report fewer complaints about stomach aches and better participation in morning lessons. Parents have expressed gratitude for the program.
In the words of one parent: “It’s such a relief to know my child is getting something healthy first thing in the morning, especially when life gets hectic. This grant doesn’t just feed children—it lifts families.”
As the grant term nears its end, we are committed to sustaining this program. We’re actively exploring community partnerships and local fundraising, determined to keep this essential service going. The Nourish to Flourish grant, combined with the LSF partnership with the University of Waterloo, didn’t just fund food—it sparked a deeper connection across our school community and reminded us all of the power of starting the day with care.