Supporting student wellness at Middlefield Collegiate Institute
Posted: July 6, 2026
Categories: nourish to flourish
At Middlefield Collegiate Institute in Markham, student well-being is at the heart of academic success. Serving approximately 1,400 students in grades 9 through 12, our school reflects the diversity and energy of South Markham. Our students come from many communities, including Sri Lanka, India, Pakistan, and China. Many students balance demanding academic schedules, extracurricular commitments, part-time jobs, and family responsibilities. For some, access to nutritious food during the school day can be a challenge. Thanks to the support of the “nourish to flourish” grant, our school has been able to address an important need while creating a stronger sense of care and belonging within our community.
The grant funded a healthy breakfast and snack program that now supports approximately 200 students every morning. Students have access to nutritious breakfast items before classes begin, helping them start the day focused, energized, and ready to learn. In addition to the morning breakfast program, snacks are also available throughout the day in Student Success, ensuring students can access food support whenever they need it.
One of the most important features of the project is its accessibility and inclusiveness. The program is open, welcoming, and stigma-free, allowing students to access food in a comfortable environment without barriers. By offering healthy options such as granola bars, fruit, yogurt, and other nutritious snacks, the program promotes both physical wellness and academic readiness.
The impact has been immediate and meaningful. Staff members have observed improved student focus, increased attendance in morning classes, and stronger engagement throughout the school day. Students who may previously have struggled to concentrate due to hunger are now arriving to class better prepared to participate and succeed. The availability of snacks in Student Success has also created opportunities for students to connect with caring staff members, strengthening relationships and encouraging students to seek support when needed.
Beyond nutrition, the grant has helped foster a greater sense of community within the school. The breakfast program has become a welcoming space where students gather before class, socialize with peers, and begin their day in a positive environment. For many students, knowing that food is consistently available has reduced stress and allowed them to focus more fully on learning and personal growth.
A teacher involved in the program shared, “This grant has made a real difference in our students’ daily lives. Something as simple as providing breakfast and snacks has improved focus, boosted morale, and shown students that their well-being matters.”
This grant has had a lasting impact on our school community by helping remove barriers to learning and supporting student wellness in meaningful, practical ways. Most importantly, it has reminded students that they are valued, supported, and cared for every day they walk through our doors.