Moving from reactive support to proactive care at Cathedral High School Wilma’s Place
Posted: July 6, 2026
Categories: nourish to flourish
At Wilma’s Place, located within our inner-city secondary school serving approximately 160 students in grades 10–12, the “nourish to flourish” grant has had a meaningful and immediate impact on student well-being and engagement. Our school community faces a range of socio-economic challenges, and for many of our students, access to consistent, nutritious food is not guaranteed. This grant has helped us respond to that need in a sustainable and student-centered way.
A key feature of our project was the investment in essential kitchen infrastructure, including the purchase of a commercial-grade freezer and additional food preparation equipment. While these may seem like simple upgrades, they have transformed our ability to operate Wilma’s Place as a reliable and responsive food support hub. The freezer has allowed us to store a wider variety of foods, including frozen proteins, prepared meals, and surplus items, reducing waste and ensuring that food is available even during periods when donations or deliveries are limited.
With improved equipment, staff and student volunteers are now able to prepare meals more efficiently and safely. This has increased both the quantity and quality of food we can offer. Instead of relying solely on pre-packaged items, we are now able to provide more balanced options that better meet students’ nutritional needs. The space has evolved from a basic food access point into a more dynamic environment where food preparation, distribution, and community-building happen together.
The impact on students has been significant. Access to consistent, nourishing food has supported improved focus in class, better attendance, and a stronger sense of belonging. Students who previously may have skipped meals are now regularly visiting Wilma’s Place, not only for food but also for connection and support. The program has become a trusted and stigma-free space within the school.
One student shared, “Before this, I didn’t always know if I’d eat during the day. Now I can come here and not worry about being hungry in class. It makes a big difference.” This sentiment reflects what we see daily—when basic needs are met, students are more ready to learn and engage.
The grant has also strengthened our school community. Staff have reported that students are more energized and better able to participate in learning. Additionally, the program has created opportunities for student leadership, with volunteers helping to organize, prepare, and distribute food. This has fostered a sense of ownership and pride in the space.
Overall, the “nourish to flourish” grant has allowed Wilma’s Place to move from reactive support to proactive care. By improving our infrastructure and expanding our capacity, we are better equipped to ensure that every student has access to the nourishment they need to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.