More local food in schools part of PEI Food Security Network discussion

A co-chair with thePEI Food Security Network says one in five Island children are affected by household food insecurity.

Kelly Gillissaid this is consistent across the Maritimes as well as in the Northwest Territories and has prompted the network to organize apanel discussion this week on how to get morelocal food in schools.

"It's definitely happening," she said. "There are a lot of community members and school staff and volunteers who are engaged in getting more local foods into the school through different breakfast programs and food programs."

Gillis added that somechefs are helping to develop food skills with cooking classes and gardening skills.

"Some schools are adopting space to host a community garden."

Helping families

Having local foods in the school helps children and families who may otherwise notbe able to afford it, said Gillis.

"Increasingly, schools have become more responsible for taking care of that need. They've developed breakfast programs, an emergency food cupboard and after school snack programs."

What is provided depends on many things, including procurement contracts.

But Gillis said some school chefs are well-connected with local farmers and are able to purchase directly from them.

Local products

Gillis said anumber of chefs and a food services official will join thepanel discussion.

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"They'll be speaking about their experiences ... bringing local Island food into schools in different ways."

The panel will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at the Farm centre as part of PEI Food Security Network'sannual meeting.

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