Vancouver, August 20, 2025 – As thousands of British Columbian students head back to class, a harsh reality emerges: Breakfast Club of Canada, the country’s largest school food provider, is witnessing a record number of children attending supported breakfast programs. Indeed, at least one in three children affirm arriving at school feeling hungry almost every day[1]. Faced with this reality, the organization is launching a fundraising campaign and calling on the population of British Columbia to join the movement to help feed children.

In a context of rising food insecurity, soaring food prices, increased cost of living and the burden of tariffs, families across British Columbia are facing impossible choices which directly impact the well-being of children. Today, at least one in three children lives in a food-insecure household, also making them about 30% of food bank users in the province[2]. Despite the recent governmental commitments, this ongoing crisis is putting unprecedented strain on schools and nonprofits, including Breakfast Club of Canada, which is being called upon more than ever.

“Behind these numbers lies immense potential: talents, voices, and dreams are at risk due to a lack of access to nutritious food. Breakfast programs are not a universal solution to today’s challenges, but they remain a beneficial intervention for thousands of students throughout the school year,” says Tommy Kulczyk, President and CEO of Breakfast Club of Canada. “Every child deserves an equal chance to success,’’ he adds.

A seat at the table for equality

Breakfast Club of Canada and its community partners have seen an average 20% increase in the number of children served in existing breakfast programs over the past few years, from coast to coast to coast. Today, over 20,000 children benefit from a nutritious breakfast through over 300 school nutrition programs supported by the Club and its partners, and the demand continues to grow. “We recognize the efforts and initiatives from all levels of government, especially through the National School Food Program, that played an important role in helping schools respond to growing needs. Despite this important step, now more than ever, support from all sectors is essential to maintain and expand programs that ensure every child starts their day with the nourishment they need,” says Judith Barry, Co-Founder and Director of Government Relations at Breakfast Club of Canada. “Whether in urban centres or remote regions, access to nutritious food is vital to help students focus, learn and grow. This is an issue that concerns us all,” she adds. Indeed, the Club has observed that one in three schools across the province identifies access to healthy, affordable food as a daily challenge.

Education is essential. So is nutritious food. Let’s make the choice to help feed children at school.

Proud of its 30-year history, Breakfast Club of Canada supports a variety of operational models through community partners like Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation and Whistler Community Services Society. The Club is committed to continuing this support while ensuring that every breakfast includes the key components of Canada’s Food Guide (protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) as well as promoting local food sourcing and food sovereignty within communities.

Breakfast Club of Canada is calling on British Columbians to join this movement of solidarity and believe in the power of breakfast. Starting today, anyone can help a child reach their full potential by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by donating breakfastclubcanada.org/back-to-school.

For this important fundraising campaign, the Club can also count on the generosity of the MTY Foundation, who will match all donations until October 31. To build awareness, ads will be broadcast on TV, online, and across social media throughout the campaign. Together, let’s help children reach their full potential.

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About Breakfast Club of Canada

Since 1994, Breakfast Club of Canada has been working with partners from all sectors to help children access a nutritious breakfast and reach their full potential. Accredited by Imagine Canada for its effective governance and recognized for its promotion of local food products across Canada, the Club helps reach children in every province and territory. To learn more, visit breakfastclubcanada.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Breakfast Club of Canada

[1] Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2019). Child well-being outcomes. Consulted on June 3, 2025

[2] Food Banks BC Hunger Report 2024, page 11

Edmonton, August 20, 2025 – As thousands of Albertan students head back to class, a harsh reality emerges: Breakfast Club of Canada, the country’s largest school food provider, is witnessing a record number of children attending supported breakfast programs. Indeed, at least one in three children in the country affirm arriving at school feeling hungry almost every day[1]. Faced with this reality, the organization is launching a fundraising campaign and calling on the population of Alberta to join the solidarity movement to help feed children.

In the context of escalating food and living costs, increased demands on food banks, and the added burden of tariffs, working families across Alberta are facing impossible choices that greatly impact children’s health and well-being. Today, nearly 40% children live in a food-insecure household[2], an alarming increase of 30% in just one year. This sharp rise gives Alberta the highest child food insecurity rate in all provinces[3]. Despite the recent governmental commitments, this ongoing crisis is putting unprecedented strain on schools and nonprofits, including Breakfast Club of Canada, which is being called upon more than ever.

“Behind these numbers lies immense potential: talents, voices, and dreams at risk due to a lack of access to nutritious food. Breakfast programs are not a universal solution to today’s challenges, but they are a practical, proven support that helps Alberta students succeed throughout the school year,” says Tommy Kulczyk, President and CEO of Breakfast Club of Canada. “Every child deserves an equal chance to success,’’ he adds.

More Than a Meal: Ensuring Every Child Starts the Day Nourished

Breakfast Club of Canada and its community partners have seen an average 40% increase in the number of children served in existing breakfast programs over the past few years, from coast to coast to coast. Today, over 37,000 Alberta children benefit from a nutritious breakfast through over 290 school programs supported by the Club and its partners, and the demand continues to grow. “We recognize the efforts and initiatives from all levels of government, especially through the National School Food Program, that contributed to helping schools respond to growing needs. Despite this important step, now more than ever, support from all sectors is essential to maintain and expand programs that ensure every child starts their day with the nourishment they need,” says Judith Barry, Co-Founder and Director of Government Relations at Breakfast Club of Canada. “Whether in urban centres, rural areas or remote regions, access to nutritious food is vital to help students focus, learn and grow. This is an issue that concerns us all,” she adds. Indeed, the Club has observed that one in three schools across the province identifies access to healthy, affordable food as a daily challenge.

Education is essential. So is nutritious food. Let’s make the choice to help feed children at school.

Proud of its 30-year history, Breakfast Club of Canada supports a variety of operational models through community partners like Edmonton Catholic Schools and Calgary Food Bank. The Club is committed to continuing this support while ensuring that every breakfast includes the key components of Canada’s Food Guide (protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) as well as promoting local food sourcing and food sovereignty within communities.

Breakfast Club of Canada is calling on Albertans to join this movement of solidarity and believe in the power of breakfast. Starting today, anyone can help a child reach their full potential by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by donating at breakfastclubcanada.org/back-to-school.

For this important fundraising campaign, the Club can also count on the generosity of the MTY Foundation, which will match all donations until October 31. To build awareness, ads will be broadcast on TV, online, and across social media throughout the campaign. Together, let’s help children reach their full potential.

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About Breakfast Club of Canada

SOURCE Breakfast Club of Canada

[1] Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2019). Child well-being outcomes. Consulted on June 3, 2025

[2] Statistics Canada. Table 13-10-0835-01 Food insecurity by selected demographic characteristics DOI: https://doi.org/10.25318/1310083501-eng

[3] Idem

Toronto, August 20, 2025 – As thousands of students in Ontario are heading back to class, Breakfast Club of Canada, the country’s largest school food provider, is witnessing a record number of children attending supported breakfast programs. Indeed, at least one in three children in the country affirm arriving at school feeling hungry almost every day[1]. Faced with this reality, the organization is launching a fundraising campaign and calling on the population of Ontario to join the movement to help feed children.

In the context of rising food insecurity, soaring food prices, increased cost of living, and the added burden of tariffs, families across Ontario are facing impossible choices, which directly impact the well-being of the youth and their capacity to learn. Today, nearly one in three children lives in a food-insecure household[2], a crisis so severe that several cities, including Toronto, Kingston, and Mississauga, have officially declared food insecurity a state of emergency in recent months. Despite the recent governmental commitments, this ongoing crisis is putting unprecedented strain on schools and nonprofits, including Breakfast Club of Canada, as more families turn to school food programs.

“Behind these numbers lies immense potential: talents, voices and dreams are at risk due to a lack of access to nutritious food. Breakfast programs are not a universal solution to today’s challenges, but they remain a beneficial intervention for thousands of students throughout the school year,” says Tommy Kulczyk, President and CEO of Breakfast Club of Canada. “Every child deserves an equal chance to success, no matter their circumstances,” he adds.

A seat at the table for equality

Breakfast Club of Canada and its community partners have seen an average 30% increase in the number of children served in existing breakfast programs over the past few years in Ontario. Today, over 650,000 children benefit from a nutritious breakfast through over 3,200 school nutrition programs supported by the Club and its partners, and the demand continues to grow. “We recognize the efforts and initiatives from all levels of government, especially through the National School Food Program, that played an important role in helping schools respond to growing needs. Despite this important step, now more than ever, support from all sectors is essential to maintain and expand programs that ensure every child starts their day with the nourishment they need,” says Judith Barry, Co-Founder and Director of Government Relations at Breakfast Club of Canada. “Whether in urban centres or remote regions, all students deserve access to nutritious food at school to support their development and learning. This is an issue that concerns us all,” she adds. Indeed, the Club has observed that one in three schools across the province identifies access to healthy, affordable food as a daily challenge.

Education is essential. So is nutritious food. Let’s make the choice to help feed children at school.

Proud of its 30-year history, Breakfast Club of Canada supports a variety of operational models through First Nations partners, as well as Student Nutrition Ontario and its network of regional lead agencies. The Club is committed to continuing this support while ensuring that every breakfast includes the key components of Canada’s Food Guide (protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) as well as promoting local food sourcing and food sovereignty within communities.

Breakfast Club of Canada is calling on Ontarians to join this movement of solidarity and believe in the power of breakfast. Starting today, anyone can help a child reach their full potential by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by donating at breakfastclubcanada.org/back-to-school.

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About Breakfast Club of Canada

SOURCE Breakfast Club of Canada

[1] Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2019). Child well-being outcomes. Consulted on June 3, 2025

[2] Statistics Canada. Table 13-10-0835-01 Food insecurity by selected demographic characteristics DOI: https://doi.org/10.25318/1310083501-eng

Toronto, August 20, 2025 – As thousands of students are heading back to class, a harsh reality emerges: Breakfast Club of Canada, the country’s largest school food provider, is witnessing a record number of children attending supported breakfast programs. Indeed, at least one in three children in the country affirm arriving at school feeling hungry almost every day.[1] Faced with this reality, the organization is launching a fundraising campaign and calling on Canadians to join the solidarity movement to feed children.

In a context of rising food insecurity, soaring food prices, increased cost of living and the burden of tariffs, families across Canada are facing impossible choices which directly impact the well-being of children and their capacity to learn. Today, nearly 2.5 million children[2] live in a food-insecure household, which represents a third of the children in the country. This is an alarming increase of nearly 20% in just one year.[3] Despite recent commitments by governments, this surge is putting immense pressure on school and nonprofit organizations, such as the Club, which are being called upon more than ever.

“Behind these numbers lies immense potential: talents, voices and dreams at risk due to a lack of access to nutritious food. Breakfast programs are not a universal solution to today’s challenges, but they remain a beneficial intervention for thousands of students throughout the school year,” says Tommy Kulczyk, President and CEO of Breakfast Club of Canada. “Every child deserves an equal chance to succeed, no matter their circumstances,” he adds.

A seat at the table for equality

Breakfast Club of Canada and its community partners have seen an average 30% increase in the number of children served in existing breakfast programs over the past few years, from coast to coast to coast. Today, over 880,000 children benefit from a nutritious breakfast through over 4,900 school nutrition programs supported by the Club and its partners, and the demand continues to grow. “We recognize the efforts and initiatives from all levels of government, especially through the National School Food Program, that played an important role in helping schools respond to growing needs. Despite this step, now more than ever, support from all sectors is essential to maintain and expand programs that ensure every child starts their day with the nourishment they need,” says Judith Barry, Co-Founder and Director of Government Relations at Breakfast Club of Canada. “Whether in urban centres or remote regions, all students deserve access to nutritious food at school to support their development and learning. This is an issue that concerns us all,” she adds. Indeed, the Club has observed that one in three schools across the country identifies access to healthy, affordable food as a daily challenge.

Education is essential. So is nutritious food. Let’s make the choice to help feed children at school.

Proud of its 30-year history, Breakfast Club of Canada supports a variety of operational models through its national network. The Club is committed to continuing this support while ensuring that every breakfast includes the key components of Canada’s Food Guide (protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) as well as promoting local food sourcing and food sovereignty within communities.

Breakfast Club of Canada is calling on Canadians to join this movement of solidarity and believe in the power of breakfast. Starting today, anyone can help a child reach their full potential by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by donating at breakfastclubcanada.org/back-to-school.

For this important fundraising campaign, the Club can also count on the generosity of the MTY Foundation and Les Producteurs de lait du Québec, which will match all donations until October 31. To build awareness, ads will be broadcast on TV, online, and across social media throughout the campaign. Together, let’s help children reach their full potential.

Alberta Press Release – Back-to-School: Hunger Hits Alberta Classrooms

British Columbia Press Release – Back-to-School: Hunger Hits British Columbia Classrooms

Ontario Press Release – Back-to-School: Hunger Hits Ontario Classrooms

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About Breakfast Club of Canada

Since 1994, Breakfast Club of Canada has been working with partners from all sectors to help children access a nutritious breakfast and reach their full potential. Accredited by Imagine Canada for its effective governance and recognized for its promotion of local food products, the Club helps reach children in every province and territory across the country. To learn more, visit breakfastclubcanada.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Breakfast Club of Canada

[1] Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. (2019). Child well-being outcomes. Consulted on June 3, 2025

[2] Statistics Canada. Table 13-10-0835-01 Food insecurity by selected demographic characteristics DOI: https://doi.org/10.25318/1310083501-eng

[3] Li T, Fafard St-Germain AA, Tarasuk V. (2023) Household food insecurity in Canada, 2022. Toronto: Research to identify policy options to reduce food insecurity (PROOF). Retrieved from https://proof.utoronto.ca/

As premiers gather in Ontario for the Council of the Federation, much of their attention will rightly be on economic pressures and trade tensions with the United States. And as they tackle these critical issues, we must not lose sight of the crisis facing our youth, their families, and communities across the country. Now more than ever, it is essential that we place children where they belong: at the heart of our decisions.

Across provinces and territories, there is a shared ambition to provide children with the means to grow up healthy and thrive. Presently, this vision is at risk. Canadian children are under unprecedented strain from economic, social, and health challenges, with food insecurity and poor diet quality widespread. Recent findings from UNICEF indicate that Canada continues to fall behind its peers in key indicators of children’s well-being, particularly in areas such as food security and health[1]. Today, 1 in 3 children, or 2.5 million children, are living in food-insecure households[2]—a shocking 20 percent increase in just one year. And this alarming trend has been consistent over the years.

These facts serve as an urgent reminder that, despite the progress made through bilateral agreements under the National School Food Program and increased provincial and territorial investments to strengthen school meal programs, significant work remains to be done. Given the scope of the crisis, one thing is certain: we must act swiftly and with unwavering commitment.

Over the years, numerous studies have confirmed that access to nutritious food has a direct and life-changing impact on a child’s ability to learn and thrive. Ensuring access to school nutrition is more than a matter of health or education; it’s a long-term investment in the future of our society and the vitality of our country.

At Breakfast Club of Canada, we recognize that governments are facing challenging decisions in the midst of inflation, rising cost of living, and fiscal uncertainty. These challenges only heighten the need to take bold, proactive measures for children. Prioritizing the well-being of our children is an investment in the prosperity and resilience of Canada as a whole. By placing children’s development at the forefront and supporting families, we help build the foundation for Canada’s future.

This is why, in the same spirit of respect and partnership, we offer this reflection: only by expanding and securing permanent investments in school food programs can we provide our children with the safety net they rightfully deserve, laying a foundation that empowers them to reach their full potential.

Let’s keep the momentum and continue to build on the spirit of collaboration that has brought the Government of Canada and the governments of provinces to adopt national school food programs over the last years. Now is the moment to stand together around one simple truth: every child deserves a fair chance in life. Addressing school hunger is a shared responsibility and a challenge that we can collectively address. As children should be at the centre of our decision, let’s put their well-being at the top of our agenda by making such programs and their appropriate public funding permanent. Therefore, we ask our public decision-makers to act accordingly. This cause is too important for the future of our country.

Tommy Kulczyk, President and CEO of Breakfast Club of Canada

[1] UNICEF Report Card 19, How does Canada rank in child well-being among wealthy nations?

[2] Statistics Canada. Table 13-10-0835-01 Food insecurity by selected demographic characteristics

Boucherville, June 19, 2025 — After six years of dedicated and impactful leadership, Tommy Kulczyk, President and Chief Executive Officer of Breakfast Club of Canada, has announced his decision to retire at the end of 2025, marking the conclusion of a remarkable tenure characterized by significant service and impact.

Under Mr. Kulczyk’s guidance, the organization experienced significant growth and transformation, addressing increased food insecurity and challenges stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership focused on expanding the organization, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring children receive nutritious breakfasts to enhance their readiness to learn.

As President and CEO, Mr. Kulczyk expanded Breakfast Club of Canada’s reach nationwide by collaborating with corporate partners and significantly increasing the number of children accessing nutritious breakfasts. His strategic approach strengthened community relationships, improved program efficiency, and laid a solid foundation for ongoing success.

Mr. Kulczyk’s major achievements include laying the groundwork for Canada’s National School Food Program, announced in 2024, and expanding the Club’s reach from 243,000 children nationwide to over 655,000 today.

“Serving as President and CEO of Breakfast Club of Canada has been an immense privilege,” said Mr. Kulczyk. “I am grateful to our dedicated team, volunteers, Board members and community partners for their unwavering support, as well as to our donors and government funders, whose contributions are essential to the pursuit of our important mission.”

The Club’s Board of Directors has formed a committee tasked with overseeing the search for Mr. Kulczyk’s successor. To ensure a thorough and comprehensive process, they have enlisted the expertise of Premium ressources humaines, a highly regarded executive search firm, to assist in identifying the ideal candidate.

“Tommy Kulczyk’s passion and vision as a steadfast advocate for equitable food access have significantly enhanced Breakfast Club of Canada,” stated Jacques Mignault, Chair of the Board of Directors. “His leadership has strengthened our organization and positioned us for the future. We sincerely thank Tommy and intend to build upon his legacy.”

Breakfast Club of Canada remains committed to nurturing children’s potential by ensuring they start their school day with access to a nutritious breakfast in a safe and supportive environment.

The organization can count on the entire management team to support and facilitate a smooth transition, ensuring that operations continue seamlessly during this period.

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About Breakfast Club of Canada

For more information and media inquiries:

Hermanie Desrosiers, hermanie.desrosiers@breakfastclubcanada.org

Victoria Jaklin, victoria.jaklin@breakfastclubcanada.org

Celebrating 30 years of generosity, and a new voice to take it even further!

Boucherville, February 25, 2025 — Breakfast Club of Canada is proud to announce that renowned Quebec singer-songwriter Roxane Bruneau has joined the movement and become an ambassador for the Club. The announcement coincides with the celebration of the Club’s 30th anniversary and three decades of commitment to school nutrition.

To mark the beginning of this new chapter and show how committed she is to the youth, Roxane donned an apron and served up a nutritious breakfast to the students of Lionel-Groulx Elementary School in Longueuil, Quebec — the very school where the Club began its operations in 1994. The children, volunteers and school staff were excited to welcome their special guest.

“Becoming an ambassador for Breakfast Club of Canada is my way of giving back to the community and supporting a cause that is truly close to my heart. Having experienced difficult times myself, I know just how much an organization like the Club can make a difference. Every child deserves to start their day with the energy to learn and thrive. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this big, beautiful family, and I encourage everyone to join the movement!” said Roxane Bruneau, singer-songwriter.

By welcoming Roxane Bruneau as an ambassador, the Club reaffirms the importance of collective action in ensuring that children have access to nutritious and complete breakfasts at school. For 30 years, Breakfast Club of Canada has been forging an incredible chain of solidarity that includes a wide range of public personalities, volunteers, school teams and other public, private and community partners. This unity is essential in highlighting the importance of breakfast as a key factor in the success of today’s and tomorrow’s generations.

As Breakfast Club of Canada’s President and CEO Tommy Kulczyk said, “Roxane Bruneau’s involvement with the Club is a wonderful testament to the fact that our mission resonates across all sectors of society. Roxane embodies the values of our organization: community, energy, and dedication to children’s well-being. Together, we can continue to make a difference.”

Thanks to the generosity of its partners, the Club now supports over 87,000 children across more than 500 school nutrition programs throughout Quebec. Everyone is invited to follow Roxane’s example and join the movement to give every child in the province an equal chance at success.

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About Breakfast Club of Canada

Since 1994, Breakfast Club of Canada has been working with partners from all sectors to help children access a nutritious breakfast and reach their full potential. Accredited by Imagine Canada for its effective governance and recognized for its promotion of local food products across Canada, the Club helps reach children in every province and territory. To learn more, visit breakfastclubcanada.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

For more information and media enquiries:

Hermanie Desrosiers, hermanie.desrosiers@breakfastclubcanada.org., Breakfast Club of Canada

[Boucherville], [January 15^th 2025] – Breakfast Club of Canada is informing its donors about recent changes federal government. The deadline for donations eligible for charitable tax receipts in the 2024 tax year will be extended until February 28, 2025, offering a unique opportunity for individuals and businesses to maximize their financial gifts and their tax benefits.

This extension is designed to help mitigate the effects of the recent Canada Post mail stoppage. With this amendment to the Income Tax Act, Canadians now have additional time to ensure their donations reach organizations like Breakfast Club of Canada and can still be claimed for the 2024 tax year.

What Donors Need to Know:

Donations made between January 1 and February 28, 2025, are now eligible to be claimed for the 2024 tax year.
Donors should retain receipts for donations made during this period, in case they wish to include them in their 2024 tax return.
The Canada Revenue Agency is administering this change based on the government’s announcement and has confirmed it will proceed retroactively upon Parliament’s approval.

Breakfast Club of Canada depends on the generosity of donors to provide essential support to children across the country. The funds we receive enable us to serve over 650,000 breakfasts daily to children who rely on our programs to start their day ready to learn.

We encourage donors to take advantage of this extension to make a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families. Together, we can ensure no child in Canada starts their day on an empty stomach. Join the movement, donate now: https://www.breakfastclubcanada.org/donate

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About Breakfast Club of Canada

Since 1994, Breakfast Club of Canada has been working with partners from all sectors to help children access a nutritious breakfast and reach their full potential. Accredited by Imagine Canada for its effective governance and recognized for its promotion of local food products, the Club helps reach children in every province and territory across the country. To learn more, visit breakfastclubcanada.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

Brampton, Ontario, November 22, 2024 – Breakfast Club of Canada welcomes the new agreement between the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to expand and enhance existing student nutrition programs in the province with an investment of $108.5M over three years.

Judith Barry, Co-Founder and Director of Government Relations at Breakfast Club of Canada, was present alongside Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, Jenna Sudds, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, Kamal Khera, Minister of Small Business, Michael Parsa, and Ontario’s Minister of Education, Jill Dunlop, during the official announcement event held in Brampton, northwest of Toronto.

Today’s announcement is part of the $1-billion National School Food Program investment announced in April 2024, and will allow Ontario to provide nutritious meals to over 160,000 additional students for the first year, starting this school year.

Following Newfoundland and Labrador and Manitoba, Ontario is the third province to sign such an agreement. Judith Barry stated, “I am confident that today will serve as a catalyst for many more agreements with other provinces. This announcement demonstrates the willingness of all stakeholders to provide the necessary nutrition for children as soon as possible. This is an important step towards fostering the well-being of Canadian families and ensuring the educational success of our children. We believe that accessing a nutritious breakfast at school is essential for a prosperous Canada.”

The Honourable Michael Parsa, Ontario’s Minister of Children, Community and Social Services stated, “Ontario has a long and proud history of supporting both the Student Nutrition Program and the First Nations Student Nutrition Program. We are pleased to partner with the Government of Canada to ensure more children and youth across the province have access to healthier meals. This builds on our government’s investment of more than $30 million in both student nutrition programs. With this partnership, we can help give more children and youth the healthy start they need to learn, grow and succeed.”

Food costs remain high, leaving families and communities with difficult choices in the coming months. However, the prices of goods should not affect access to nutritious food or children’s success in school.

Judith Barry further emphasized, “We are ready to work with all stakeholders to bring this program to life as soon as possible, for the benefit of the children. This is yet another indication that feeding children should be everyone’s responsibility—governments, the private sector, and community partners. It is one of the best investments to support families, and care for the next generation.”

In the coming weeks and months, drawing on its 30 years of experience and dedication to nourishing children, Breakfast Club of Canada will continue to work closely with the Ontario government, school communities, First Nations partners, as well as Student Nutrition Ontario and its network of regional lead agencies, to implement the National School Food Program in Ontario.

About Breakfast Club of Canada

Since 1994, Breakfast Club of Canada has been working with partners from all sectors to help children access a nutritious breakfast and reach their full potential. Accredited by Imagine Canada for its effective governance and recognized for its promotion of local food products, the Club helps reach children in every province and territory across the country. To learn more, visit breakfastclubcanada.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

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Source: Breakfast Club of Canada
Media Contact: Eric Aach, eaach@national.ca, 514 569-3594

Breakfast Club of Canada launches holiday fundraising campaign to amplify support for high-quality breakfast programs for school children

BOUCHERVILLE, Quebec, November 19, 2024 – With the holiday season approaching, Breakfast Club of Canada (BCC) is intensifying efforts to reach the 800,000 children across Canada who still lack access to a nutritious breakfast each morning in the coming years. This season, BCC is urging Canadians to make a powerful New Year’s resolution: help ensure every child starts their school day with a nourishing breakfast.

While the National School Food Program (NSFP) is slowly unfolding in some provinces and will not respond to the growing need in the country, the urgency remains. The Club continues to raise awareness among all levels of government to expedite the implementation of this important program. Despite this significant step, the needs are growing and come the new year, many children will still face the harsh reality of starting their school day on an empty stomach.

Challenges persist through the holidays

Although inflation has recently declined, the cost of living remains high. Families and communities continue to face difficult choices, especially as they look to the year ahead. The prices of goods should not affect access to nutritious food or children’s success in school.

“Since the start of the school year, Breakfast Club of Canada has been navigating dual challenges: the rising demand for new programs and the increased attendance in our existing breakfast initiatives,” says Tommy Kulczyk, President and CEO of Breakfast Club of Canada. “While we greatly appreciate the generosity of our partners and donors, it’s clear that sustained and enhanced efforts will be essential to maintain these programs and meet the growing needs of our communities.”

Join the movement

For 30 years, the Club has been at the cornerstone of the lives of children and families across the country and remains dedicated to offering a complete nutrition plan that aligns with Canada’s Food Guide. Looking forward, the Club’s goal is to expand its services to nearly 3,000 schools across the country in the coming years, offering children an equal chance of success.

As part of the holiday campaign, Canadians are invited to create lasting change and

join a movement that transcends the breakfast table. Starting today, the public can donate by texting CLUB to 20222, or going to breakfastclubcanada.org/holidays

Together, let’s help children reach their full potential.

About Breakfast Club of Canada

Since 1994, Breakfast Club of Canada has been working with partners from all sectors to help children access a nutritious breakfast and reach their full potential. Accredited by Imagine Canada for its effective governance and recognized for its promotion of local food products, the Club helps reach children in every province and territory across the country. To learn more, visit breakfastclubcanada.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

Boucherville – November 13, 2024 – Breakfast Club of Canada is pleased to announce that this year’s annual fundraising campaign with Walmart Canada raised a remarkable $4.3 million, which includes a $1 million corporate donation from Walmart Canada. The campaign took place in more than 400 Walmart stores and online from August 29 to October 31.

Since 2003, Walmart Canada has worked with Breakfast Club of Canada, donating and raising more than $71 million to help reach students across the country. Walmart Canada is a long-time supporter of the Club’s efforts to help give all children an equal chance at success. The generosity of Walmart Canada, its customers and associates will have a significant impact on school nutrition programs across Canada, including in remote communities.

Despite ongoing efforts, Breakfast Club of Canada, school communities and community partners estimate there are still over 800,000 children who would need the Club’s support in nearly 3,000 schools. These children continue to be at risk of going to school on an empty stomach. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this fall, Breakfast Club of Canada remains a cornerstone in the lives of families and communities from coast to coast to coast. As a national leader in school nutrition, it has worked tirelessly since its foundation in 1994 to highlight the importance of a nutritious breakfast every morning for all children.

“For 22 years, Walmart Canada has been a major partner who understands the importance of the work we do. Their continued commitment to reaching more children across the country and the annual fundraising campaign gives us the chance to reach a large audience and encourage millions of Canadians to support our cause. Breakfast Club of Canada is grateful for the support of Walmart over the years,” highlighted Judith Barry Co-Founder & Government Relations Director.

“No child should start their day hungry, which is why breakfast programs are so important—they create a warm, caring environment where kids can begin their day with full bellies and ready to learn,” said Rob Nicol, Vice President, Communications and Corporate Affairs at Walmart Canada. “We’re proud to support Breakfast Club of Canada and of our role in setting kids up for lifelong success. We’re equally grateful for the continued support from our customers and associates, whose generosity and commitment to fighting childhood hunger continue to make a tremendous impact.”

VIDEO: https://vimeo.com/1027671021/69b1ec64ae?share=copy

About Breakfast Club of Canada

For 30 years, Breakfast Club of Canada has been working with partners from all sectors to help children access a nutritious breakfasts and reach their full potential. Accredited by Imagine Canada for its effective governance and recognized for its promotion of local food products, the Club helps reach children in every province and territory across the country. To learn more, visit breakfastclubcanada.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

About Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada operates a chain of more than 400 stores nationwide serving 1.5 million customers each day. Walmart Canada’s flagship online store, Walmart.ca is visited 1.5 million customers daily. With more than 100,000 associates, Walmart Canada is one of Canada’s largest employers and is ranked one of the country’s top 10 most influential brands. Walmart Canada has made a commitment to regeneration – focusing on equitable opportunity, sustainability, community, ethics and integrity. Since 1994, Walmart Canada has raised and donated more than $750 million to Canadian charities. Additional information can be found at walmartcanada.ca and on Walmart Canada’s social media pages – Facebook, X , Instagram and LinkedIn.

Media Contact

For more information and to schedule interviews with Breakfast Club of Canada or Walmart spokespeople, please contact:

Julie Hauville – Communications & Partnerships, Breakfast Club of Canada julie.hauville@breakfastclubcanada.org

Felicia Fefer – Corporate Affairs, Walmart Canada Felicia.Fefer@walmart.com

[Boucherville, Sep. 17th 2024] – Breakfast Club of Canada (BCC) is teaming up once again with Walmart Canada for its annual campaign to raise funds for school breakfast programs. This marks the 22nd year of their collaboration to help reach over 650,000 children in over 3,800 school nutrition programs.

Walmart Canada is kickstarting the campaign, which runs until Oct. 11, with a generous $1 million donation. Walmart customers are invited to participate in the campaign by donating at the checkout in-store or online at Walmart.ca.

Walmart Canada is Breakfast Club of Canada’s largest corporate partner and has more than 400 stores and over 100,000 associates supporting this very worthy cause from coast to coast to coast. Since first joining forces with Breakfast Club of Canada 22 years ago, Walmart Canada has donated and fundraised over $67 million for BCC.

Devoted to the health and well-being of children, Breakfast Club of Canada continues to work alongside valued partners such as Walmart Canada to advance its mission. With one in three children at risk of going to school hungry, and the cost of food and transportation on the rise, it is becoming increasingly challenging for BCC to sustain its breakfast programs. Donations are more critical now than ever before.

“The Breakfast Club’s mission, driven by a passion for supporting children’s well-being and helping them develop their full potential, draws its strength from solid partnerships. Every year, Walmart Canada associates and customers rally around our mission to help us serve millions of nutritious breakfasts to kids across the country,” said Paul Lethbridge, director, corporate and community giving at Breakfast Club of Canada. “We’re very grateful for Walmart’s unwavering support.”

“Walmart Canada is committed to fighting hunger and food insecurity, especially among children. We’re excited to team up with the Breakfast Club of Canada once again to raise funds and awareness about the importance of a healthy breakfast for children’s overall well-being,” said Rob Nicol, vice president communications and corporate affairs, Walmart Canada. “Breakfast is often referred to as the most important meal of the day and we want to ensure every child has access to a healthy breakfast, and, in turn, a better chance at a successful future. We look forward to another successful campaign.”

BCC works with its partners, including Walmart Canada, to raise awareness of the importance of a nutritious breakfast for children throughout the school year. In order to do so, however, it requires generous support and a strong network.

To learn more and donate to the campaign: Walmart Campaign

About Breakfast Club of Canada

For 30 years, Breakfast Club of Canada has been working with partners from all sectors to help children access a nutritious breakfast and reach their full potential. Accredited by Imagine Canada for its effective governance and recognized for its promotion of local food products, the Club helps reach children in every province and territory across the country. To learn more, visit breakfastclubcanada.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

About Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada operates a chain of more than 400 stores nationwide serving 1.5 million customers each day. Walmart Canada’s flagship online store, Walmart.ca is visited 1.5 million customers daily. With more than 100,000 associates, Walmart Canada is one of Canada’s largest employers and is ranked one of the country’s top 10 most influential brands. Walmart Canada’s extensive philanthropy program is focused on supporting Canadian families in need, and since 1994 Walmart Canada has raised and donated more than $750 million to Canadian charities. Additional information can be found at walmartcanada.ca and on Walmart Canada’s social media pages – Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram and LinkedIn.

Media Contact

For more information and to schedule interviews with Breakfast Club of Canada or Walmart spokespeople, please contact:

Julie Hauville – Communications & Partnerships, Breakfast Club of Canada julie.hauville@breakfastclubcanada.org

Felicia Fefer – Corporate Affairs, Walmart Canada Felicia.Fefer@walmart.com