Forum: Food Sharing Project
By Forums Team 25/26
The Food Sharing Project Forum discussed a critical issue the community is facing: the growing need for school nutrition programs in Kingston and surrounding areas. Noor-Ul-Huda, Programs Supervisor, did an incredible presentation for us on Tuesday, educating us on their mission. As a well-established registered charity, the Food Sharing Project ensures every school in Kingston, Frontenac, and Lennox & Addington regions receives nutritious food daily, providing breakfast, lunch, and substantial snacks to any student without barriers or stigma.
To understand why kids are arriving at school hungry requires looking at many parts of their day-to-day lives. Students travelling by bus may spend hours commuting daily, leaving little time for proper meals. While others face food insecurity at home, forget packed lunches, or come to school hungry after morning sports. Factors like inadequate sleep, stress, and developmental growth spurts also increase hunger, while short lunch periods limit when students can actually eat.
Despite stable enrollment figures, program demand surged between 20 - 40% from 2020 to 2023, while food costs simultaneously climbed 40 - 80%. Schools report students accessing programs more frequently and requesting larger servings with greater variety and freshness. Currently, dedicated volunteers pack an impressive four tons of food weekly for regional distribution, a testament to both community commitment and escalating need.
Behind these statistics lies a broader economic crisis affecting families across Canada. Between 2018 and 2023, inflation jumped 17.3% while wages and income supports lagged dramatically behind. This affordability crisis has pushed food insecurity to alarming levels, with nearly one in four Canadian families affected by 2023.
Schools with robust food programs consistently report improvements, including stronger academic performance, better attendance and punctuality, and heightened student engagement. When basic nutritional needs are met, students are more focused and interact better with classmates. Universal access reduces anxiety and behavioural issues while supporting family budgets and encouraging healthier eating over processed alternatives.
What was highlighted throughout the forum is that school food programs represent far more than stopgap measures. They've evolved into fundamental infrastructure supporting student success, family stability, and community resilience. As demand continues rising, investing in these programs is essential for building stronger, more equitable communities where every child has the foundation they need to learn, grow, and reach their full potential.
So what can YOU do?
Advocate for income
Advocate for universal school food
Contribute to the development of a robust meal program in your schools
Donate your time to help out; recruit others
Sign up to be an in-school volunteer
Recognize barriers and reduce stigma
Thank you, Noor-Ul-Huda and the Food Sharing Project, for your commitment, kindness, and for sharing your mission with us!