Sobeys and Safeway locations in Sherwood Park are gearing up for the annual Make Happy Tummies campaign formerly called Toonies for Tummies which supports local Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) students. "These grocery stores and the customers who shop at them are making a real difference in our schools," says Laurie Borle, an employee at EIPS who co-ordinates the Division's participation and has supported several nutrition programs at many EIPS schools for more than a decade. "Every dollar you've donated goes to supporting students to have the nutrition they need to succeed. Together, we make happier tummies and healthier communities."
Make Happy Tummies is a charitable campaign that sees participating grocery stores in Western Canada, Ontario and Atlantic Canada help raise money for hungry children. Grocery stores collect donations from their customers and send 100 per cent of the proceeds to students in need.
Last year's campaign raised $30,225 at local Sobeys and Safeways, and these donations have been distributed to 27 EIPS schools - the funds are being used to buy healthy snacks and meals, in addition to supplementing nutrition programs already in place. "These nutrition programs are essential," says Borle. "We can't learn at our best when we're hungry. Food not only fuels our bodies it nourishes our brains, improving focus, retention, comprehension and more."
Woodbridge Farms Elementary uses funds from the campaign for its Harvest Basket nutrition program. "Our Harvest Basket program operates Tuesdays and Thursdays," says Christy Hinks, the Registrar and Business Manager at the school. "Healthy snacks are kept at the front desk in the office and put out by morning recess. These fresh fruits and vegetables are available for all students - no questions asked. We've had some fun options in the past, such as dragon fruit, asparagus, green beans and papaya. Recently, we've had apples and roasted potatoes - something warm for these cold winter days!"
While grocery stores participate in the campaign, the Grocery Foundation oversees the administration of Make Happy Tummies. "Thanks to the kindness of donors, local children who are hungry receive much-needed support, even if they can't express their gratitude personally," shares Shaun McKenna, Executive Director of the Grocery Foundation. "Each donation has a significant impact, with 100 per cent going to local schools. We're incredibly grateful to all Canadians for supporting our mission and enabling nutrition programs from coast to coast to nourish a generation of children, enhancing their well-being and helping them pursue their dreams."
Individuals can donate to this year's Make Happy Tummies campaign either online or in-store. In-store donations will be accepted in Sherwood Park from March 20 to April 3. Online donations can be made throughout the year. See the Grocery Foundation's website for participating grocery retailers and the online donation option.
