Update submitted by Larry Stillwell!
As Rotarians we are always presented with opportunities to help others. Our Kentville Club is no different from those around the Globe. As a relative new member I felt there was a lack of introduction to the various contributions being made to the local area, it seemed to be a learning experience from one Club meeting to another. So today I thought I would write a note about one of the projects which I have enjoyed participating in, and it is the Breakfast Baking Program for a local school.
Initially I thought the need for this program was for a specific School in a particular geographic area, however as I time goes by and I readjust to the Valley Area, from whence I was born, educated and matured. However, as my tenure at the club, as well as the time spent reconnecting to this area growing , I have learned a lot about the Valley and some issues with which many are dealing.
The Valley Area has a population of 81,200 people (2016 Census) and have the prevalence of lowest income in the total province. Recent studies by the Public Health Services also show that throughout the valley area one-third of primary students and two thirds of secondary students go to school without a nutritious breakfast. In fact, the issue exists Nationally and there is a movement to establish a National School Food Program not unlike many other countries and where all students would have access to affordable or free healthy snacks or meals while they are at school. This would be beneficial to all families and would reduce the burden on families living with food insecurities.
In the near future, you will learn that there will be many local initiatives throughout which are focused on addressing this issue and some could be green schools where produce will be grown, and they connect ecological innovation with education, equity and community engagement.
Thus in this area of Kings County the Rotary Club of Kentville is providing the school baking service, and is assisting in addressing the requirements with which many communities are presently struggling. You should recognize that you can also bring your significant other, neighbours’, relatives and or friends.
The program is basically held on the first Tuesday of every month while the schools are in session and the total compliment of positions is eight. The next event will be on the evening of February 5th. Unfortunately having enough participants seems to be difficult. Please consider signing up when the next email notification is issued.
The picture shows the wonderful team from January 8th, 2019.