Adapting Student Nutrition Programs to Support Students Needs 

Halton Food for Thought (HFFT) works with each partner school to deliver the best version of a student nutrition program that aligns with the facilities of a school, volunteers and school layout. The goal is to operate a program in a way where all students can access the nutritious food options in a universal and welcoming manner.  

At St. Patrick CES Principal Comito came into the 2025/26 school year looking to adjust and improve the nutritious offerings to her students. She recognized the opportunity to add protein options for further nutrients to strengthen the support her students receive at school.

Working with HFFT, Principal Comito added in a breakfast cart three days a week where protein in the form of yogurt or cheese is added to granola bars, fresh fruit and other nutritious options already served to her students. The program is supported by a single parent volunteer who helps to put together these carts as well as staff member who takes care of purchasing and wheeling out the carts to common areas of the school for easy access for students. It is a small team who together help connect the 300+ students at the school to healthy food to start their school day nourished.

We asked Principal Comito to share about her school's Student Nutrition Program, "Our goal is to ensure every student feels supported by providing nutritious, high-protein options in a way that is accessible, respectful, free of barriers or stigma, and part of the normal routine of the school day. Our partnership with Halton Food for Thought has allowed us to enhance our nutrition program in a way that fits our school and responds to our students’ needs.” 

On mornings where the carts are out, the students enter the school to see the nutritious food for them to choose from and take to enjoy in class before the day starts. On the other school days, students have access to snack bins in their classrooms should the need arise throughout the day. This gives students different options to support their access to nutritious food five days a week at school.

"We give kudos to Principal Comito for identifying the opportunity to elevate this program for her students,” said HFFT Executive Director Aliya Khawari when asked about the impact of expanding the program offerings to students. “We know each school is stretched with demands for its staff and through engaging volunteers in a simple way they have been able to increase the options and support for students at St. Patrick.”

We are grateful to Principal Comito for helping to elevate the program this year for her students. It is a great example of how with a small volunteer team we can work together to nourish our students throughout the week.

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