Food Access Program

Research tells us that many students come to school hungry without access to basic items such as clean clothes, proper meals, and the ability to be part of sports or activities. Westview Elementary is part of a North Vancouver School District pilot project providing all students in the school ‘access’ to one of the basics-food. This program is not intended to target specific students but rather be available to all students. We know that the food access program results in increased attendance, healthier food being chosen over less healthy options, behaviour changes and increases in classroom engagement/participation. The food access program does not replace sending your child to school after eating a nutritious breakfast with a recess snack and full lunch. It is meant to supplement what parents are already sending. At Westview, we are in the process of trying different ways of providing students with access to these healthy foods. Right now we put trays of foods out for students to help themselves to after recess and after lunch. If you have any questions, suggestions or feedback please contact us at the school.