Skip-a-Lunch-Day

Sandra C. Kelly, Minister of Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education, today invited all members of the House of Assembly and all members of the general public to support the School Lunch Association�s Skip-A-Lunch campaign and donate the money they usually spend on lunch to the School Lunch Association.

"Since 1989 the School Lunch Association has served hot meals for primary and elementary school children in the city," said Minister Kelly. "The Skip-a-Lunch program, now in its fifth year, has become an important part of this program, raising funds for the group and increasing awareness of the issue of child poverty and its effect on children�s education in this province."

The event is well known in the community and has garnered the support of the Premier and Mrs. Grimes, the entire caucus, the Department of Youth Services and Post-Secondary Education, and other prominent figures from the political, business, arts, entertainment and media communities.

"One of the things I most admire about the program is the sensitivity displayed toward children and the ultimate goal of ensuring they are provided with food without judgement by their peers or injury to their self-esteem," said Minister Kelly. "As part of this program, children have a chance to experience school with a full stomach, an alert mind and an opportunity for a brighter future. I think these are worthy reasons to skip lunch once a year."

Some 12 schools and more than 3000 children benefit from the program, which provides lunch regardless of a student�s ability to pay. In this school year, the program has expanded to include St. Andrew�s Elementary and, in the first expansion outside the capital city, St. Bernard�s Primary in Witless Bay. Further expansion into the Pouch Cove area is planned for the upcoming school year.

"I am pleased that my department is able to provide the School Lunch Association with an annual grant of $75,000 to assist them in the delivery of their program to schools," said Minister Kelly. "I look forward to working with the group in the future and will be happy to show my support today by skipping lunch. I encourage everyone to do the same."

Media contact: Janice Lockyer, Communications, (709) 729 6573.

2002 03 21                        11:50 a.m.