Lunch
Consists of 4 food groups. For example:
- 250 mL 2% milk
- Protein-based sandwich (egg, tuna, meat, or cheese)
- 100% whole wheat bread
- Vegetable sticks
- Fruit or low-fat baked item
School Feeding Program
We respond to requests from schools to establish feeding programs. Any school in Regina may contact us with a need for a program to service as few or as many students as they have identified in their school that are not receiving adequate nutrition. The school staff are our connection to the students and assist by recommending children that could benefit from the program, gathering forms, and prepping/distributing food.
Schools may request breakfasts, lunches, and/or snacks depending on the needs of their students. In some of our schools the students are often involved in preparing their own meals using the menus and groceries we provide.
We have two types of programs:
Universal: There is a general need in that particular school; all students receive food and any surplus can be consumed by those students who need it most.
Targeted: Smaller programs where food may be provided only to a specific classroom or specific students demonstrating need as determined by school staff.
School Requests
Schools interested in applying to the program are asked to submit a new school request form. Information to provide in the request includes:
- Statement of need
- Type of snack or meal (i.e. breakfast, lunch, or snack)
- How many children
- Number of days per week
- Dedicated staff at the school to pick up and distribute the food
Regina Food for Learning reviews the requests and determines if the school will be a good fit for the program. Other considerations include budget, operational capacity, and storage space. Once in the program, Regina Food for Learning requires that all participating students register by filling out a form indicating any food allergies or dietary restrictions.
Nutrition Policy
Our nutrition standards adhere to guidelines set forth by REACH as well as the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education’s Nourishing Minds framework, and are monitored by our Board of Directors and staff.
Menu Planning and Preparation
Our Food Services Coordinator plans monthly menus and is also responsible for ordering food, receiving deliveries, and supplementing with grocery shopping where necessary. With the help of our dedicated volunteers, food is prepared at the Core Ritchie Neighbourhood Centre, 5 days per week, with schools picking up food weekly.
We make every effort to reduce food costs by adjusting menus to avoid items that have cost spikes, purchasing discounted items where possible, and choosing fruits/vegetables that are in season.
Nutrition Education
Nutrition education is an important part of our program and we continually strive to introduce new foods and learning experiences whenever possible. There is an effort to provide as much variety as possible of fresh fruits and vegetables of the highest quality in season.
Thanks to the efforts of school staff, many of our programs prepare or assemble food in the classroom, which allows students to learn valuable food skills and enjoy the social benefits of eating together.
