Boucherville, QC (September 17, 2026) As students settle into a new school year, Walmart Canada is donating $1 million to Breakfast Club of Canada and inviting customers to help more children start their day with a nutritious breakfast.

The donation kicks off Walmart Canada’s annual fundraising campaign in support of Breakfast Club of Canada, now in its 24th year. From September 17 to October 9, Walmart Canada customers are invited to support the campaign by donating at checkout in stores or online at Walmart.ca.

Every contribution will help Breakfast Club of Canada support school breakfast programs and reach children and communities across the country.

“We’re proud to count on long-standing partners like Walmart, who share our commitment to giving every child the opportunity to succeed,” said Julie Desharnais, President and Chief Executive Officer of Breakfast Club of Canada. Through their ongoing support and the generosity of customers who take part in the annual fundraising campaign, we can raise awareness of our mission among more Canadians and help even more children start their day with a nutritious and balanced breakfast. This partnership is essential to increasing our impact and furthering our mission across the country.”

Since the partnership began, Walmart Canada has raised and donated nearly $75 million, helping provide approximately 37 million breakfasts, through Breakfast Club programs in hundreds of communities across Canada and is Breakfast Club of Canada’s largest corporate supporter.

The need remains significant. An estimated 2.4 million children in Canada experience food insecurity -that’s approximately 1 in 3 children1.* For families facing food insecurity, access to nutritious food can be a daily challenge, including the start of the school day.

For more than 30 years, Breakfast Club of Canada has worked with partners and communities to help address that challenge and fill this gap every day. Today, Breakfast Club of Canada reaches nearly 940,000 children, helping provide access to complete, nutritious and balanced breakfasts so they can start their day ready to learn, grow and reach their full potential.

“Every child deserves to start the school day with the energy and confidence to learn and thrive,” said Sara Gugula, Chief People Officer, Walmart Canada. “For more than two decades, our associates and customers have come together to support Breakfast Club of Canada and the families and communities they serve. We’re proud to continue that commitment and invite Canadians to join us in helping create brighter mornings for kids across the country.”

About Breakfast Club of Canada

For more than 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 is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer of more than 400 stores nationwide serving 1.5 million customers each day. Walmart Canada’s flagship online store, Walmart.ca is visited by 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 $940 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.orgmailto:julie.hauville@breakfastclubcanada.org

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

 

1PROOF. (April 29, 2026). New data on household food insecurity in 2025. University of Toronto.

With almost one in three children in British Columbia living in food-insecure households, Breakfast Club of Canada launches its annual fundraising campaign 

 

Vancouver, British Columbia, August 18, 2026 –

With the new school year just days away, Breakfast Club of Canada is launching its annual fundraising and awareness campaign at a time when almost one in three children in British Columbia lives in a household affected by food insecurity. Across Canada, nearly 2.4 million children face this reality. 

For children, back-to-school means new learning opportunities, new friendships and new possibilities. But for far too many of them, much more than breakfast is missing: they lack the essential energy they need to learn, the focus to participate fully and the feeling of being ready to succeed throughout the day. 

Faced with growing demand for breakfast programs, Breakfast Club of Canada aims to implement sustainable solutions to fight hunger at school. At a time when the cost of living is rising across the country, particularly as a result of inflation, it is essential to act where something is missing. That is why the Club is launching a fundraising and awareness campaign ahead of the new school year and inviting people to show solidarity so that children can eat breakfast every morning and reach their full potential.

 

Food insecurity, inflation and the rising cost of living: Children and their families are missing essential resources 

At the start of the school year, as household expenses increase, access to adequate and nutritious food remains a challenge for many families. The Club currently supports 300 breakfast programs across British Columbia, reaching more than 21,000 children. In 2025–2026, 93% of schools reported seeing a positive impact from breakfast programs in supporting families with their morning routines or access to food.

““Once again this year, Breakfast Club of Canada continues to pursue its vital mission: supporting children in reaching their full potential. No child should have to worry about whether they will have the opportunity to thrive, much less whether they will have access to breakfast. More than ever, our organization and our precious partners believe that an environment conducive to learning and success starts with a nutritious breakfast every morning,”  said Julie Desharnais, President and Chief Executive Officer of Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

Nourishing British Columbia’s children through expertise rooted in responsibility and sustainability 

Breakfast Club of Canada is proud to support Canadian businesses through collaboration rooted in sustainability and diversity, with the help of partners located across the country. Breakfast menus are also planned and developed by the Club’s own expert committee. 

According to a 2026 economic study conducted by AppEco, in Canada, every dollar invested in breakfast programs supported by the Club generates nearly $2 in benefits for Canadians. 

“It is important for us to develop our own menus so that we can offer children the very best. Local sourcing also allows us to support Canadian businesses and our local economy, while meeting quality standards for variety and access to nutritious foods,” explained François Jolicoeur, Director, Programs and Operations at Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

This year, help provide what is missing 

For this important fundraising campaign, Breakfast Club of Canada is also grateful for the generosity of the MTY Foundation, which will match donations until October 31. To raise public awareness, content will be shared on Breakfast Club of Canada’s website and social media channels throughout the campaign. 

This back-to-school season, you can help provide what is missing by making a donation to Breakfast Club of Canada. Starting today, anyone can donate by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by visiting breakfastclubcanada.org/

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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

 

With one in three children in Alberta living in food-insecure households, Breakfast Club of Canada launches its annual fundraising campaign

 

Boucherville, Quebec, August 18, 2026 –

With the new school year just days away, Breakfast Club of Canada is launching its annual fundraising and awareness campaign at a time when one in three children in Alberta lives in a household affected by food insecurity. Across Canada, nearly 2.4 million children face this reality.

For children, back-to-school means new learning opportunities, new friendships and new possibilities. But for far too many of them, much more than breakfast is missing: they lack the essential energy they need to learn, the focus to participate fully and the feeling of being ready to succeed throughout the day.

Faced with growing demand for breakfast programs, Breakfast Club of Canada aims to implement sustainable solutions to fight hunger at school. At a time when the cost of living is rising across the country, particularly as a result of inflation, it is essential to act where something is missing. That is why the Club is launching a fundraising and awareness campaign ahead of the new school year and inviting people to show solidarity so that children can eat breakfast every morning and reach their full potential.

 

Food insecurity, inflation and the rising cost of living: Children and their families are missing essential resources 

At the start of the school year, as household expenses increase, access to adequate and nutritious food remains a challenge for many families. The Club currently supports 300 breakfast programs across Alberta, reaching more than 45,500 children. In 2025–2026, 93% of schools reported seeing a positive impact from breakfast programs in supporting families with their morning routines or access to food. 

““Once again this year, Breakfast Club of Canada continues to pursue its vital mission: supporting children in reaching their full potential. No child should have to worry about whether they will have the opportunity to thrive, much less whether they will have access to breakfast. More than ever, our organization and our precious partners believe that an environment conducive to learning and success starts with a nutritious breakfast every morning,”  said Julie Desharnais, President and Chief Executive Officer of Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

Nourishing Alberta’s children through expertise rooted in responsibility and sustainability 

Breakfast Club of Canada is proud to support Canadian businesses through collaboration rooted in sustainability and diversity, with the help of partners located across the country. Breakfast menus are also planned and developed by the Club’s own expert committee. 

According to a 2026 economic study conducted by AppEco, in Canada, every dollar invested in breakfast programs supported by the Club generates nearly $2 in benefits for Canadians. 

“It is important for us to develop our own menus so that we can offer children the very best. Local sourcing also allows us to support Canadian businesses and our local economy, while meeting quality standards for variety and access to nutritious foods,” explained François Jolicoeur, Director, Programs and Operations at Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

This year, help provide what is missing 

For this important fundraising campaign, Breakfast Club of Canada is also grateful for the generosity of the MTY Foundation, which will match donations until October 31. To raise public awareness, content will be shared on Breakfast Club of Canada’s website and social media channels throughout the campaign. 

This back-to-school season, you can help provide what is missing by making a donation to Breakfast Club of Canada. Starting today, anyone can donate by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by visiting breakfastclubcanada.org/

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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

 

With almost one in three children in Ontario living in food-insecure households, Breakfast Club of Canada launches its annual fundraising campaign

 

Boucherville, Quebec, August 18, 2026 – With the new school year just days away, Breakfast Club of Canada is launching its annual fundraising and awareness campaign at a time when one in three children in Ontario lives in a household affected by food insecurity. Across Canada, nearly 2.4 million children face this reality. 

For children, back-to-school means new learning opportunities, new friendships and new possibilities. But for far too many of them, much more than breakfast is missing: they lack the essential energy they need to learn, the focus to participate fully and the feeling of being ready to succeed throughout the day. 

Faced with growing demand for breakfast programs, Breakfast Club of Canada aims to implement sustainable solutions to fight hunger at school. At a time when the cost of living is rising across the country, particularly as a result of inflation, it is essential to act where something is missing. That is why the Club is launching a fundraising and awareness campaign ahead of the new school year and inviting people to show solidarity so that children can eat breakfast every morning and reach their full potential. 

 

Food insecurity, inflation and the rising cost of living: Children and their families are missing essential resources 

At the start of the school year, as household expenses increase, access to adequate and nutritious food remains a challenge for many families. The Club currently supports 3,650 breakfast programs across Ontario, reaching more than 670,000 children. In 2025–2026, 93% of schools reported seeing a positive impact from breakfast programs in supporting families with their morning routines or access to food. 

“Once again this year, Breakfast Club of Canada continues to pursue its vital mission: supporting children in reaching their full potential. No child should have to worry about whether they will have the opportunity to thrive, much less whether they will have access to breakfast. More than ever, our organization and our precious partners believe that an environment conducive to learning and success starts with a nutritious breakfast every morning,” said Julie Desharnais, President and Chief Executive Officer of Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

Nourishing Ontario’s children through expertise rooted in responsibility and sustainability 

Breakfast Club of Canada is proud to support Canadian businesses through collaboration rooted in sustainability and diversity, with the help of partners located across the country. Breakfast menus are also planned and developed by the Club’s own expert committee. 

According to a 2026 economic study conducted by AppEco, in Canada, every dollar invested in breakfast programs supported by the Club generates nearly $2 in benefits for Canadians. 

“It is important for us to develop our own menus so that we can offer children the very best. Local sourcing also allows us to support Canadian businesses and our local economy, while meeting quality standards for variety and access to nutritious foods,” explained François Jolicoeur, Director, Programs and Operations at Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

This year, help provide what is missing 

For this important fundraising campaign, Breakfast Club of Canada is also grateful for the generosity of the MTY Foundation, which will match donations until October 31. To raise public awareness, content will be shared on Breakfast Club of Canada’s website and social media channels throughout the campaign. 

This back-to-school season, you can help provide what is missing by making a donation to Breakfast Club of Canada. Starting today, anyone can donate by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by visiting breakfastclubcanada.org/

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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

 

With almost one in four children in Quebec living in food-insecure households, Breakfast Club of Canada launches its annual fundraising campaign 

 

Boucherville, Quebec, August 18, 2026 – With the new school year just days away, Breakfast Club of Canada is launching its annual fundraising and awareness campaign at a time when one in four children in Quebec lives in a household affected by food insecurity. Across Canada, nearly 2.4 million children face this reality. 

For children, back-to-school means new learning opportunities, new friendships and new possibilities. But for far too many of them, much more than breakfast is missing: they lack the essential energy they need to learn, the focus to participate fully and the feeling of being ready to succeed throughout the day. 

Faced with growing demand for breakfast programs, Breakfast Club of Canada aims to implement sustainable solutions to fight hunger at school. At a time when the cost of living is rising across the country, particularly as a result of inflation, it is essential to act where something is missing. That is why the Club is launching a fundraising and awareness campaign ahead of the new school year and inviting people across the province to show solidarity so that children can eat breakfast every morning and reach their full potential. 

 

Food insecurity, inflation and the rising cost of living: Children and their families are missing essential resources 

At the start of the school year, as household expenses increase, access to adequate and nutritious food remains a challenge for many families. The Club currently supports 670 breakfast programs across Quebec, reaching more than 105,000 children. In 2025–2026, 93% of schools reported seeing a positive impact from breakfast programs in supporting families with their morning routines or access to food. 

“Once again this year, Breakfast Club of Canada continues to pursue its vital mission: supporting children in reaching their full potential. No child should have to worry about whether they will have the opportunity to thrive, much less whether they will have access to breakfast. More than ever, our organization and our precious partners believe that an environment conducive to learning and success starts with a nutritious breakfast every morning,” said Julie Desharnais, President and Chief Executive Officer of Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

Nourishing Quebec’s children through expertise rooted in responsibility and sustainability 

Breakfast Club of Canada is proud to support local businesses through sustainable local sourcing, with the help of partners located across Quebec. From its distribution centre in Varennes, the Club and its partners reach children in every administrative region of the province. Breakfast menus are also planned and developed by the Club’s own expert committee. 

According to a 2026 economic study conducted by AppEco, in Quebec, where programs benefit from a local operating model adapted to regional realities, every dollar invested generates more than twice as much in economic and social returns. 

“It is important for us to develop our own menus so that we can offer children the very best. Local sourcing also allows us to support Quebec businesses and our local economy, while meeting quality standards for variety and access to nutritious foods,” explained François Jolicoeur, Director, Programs and Operations at Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

This year, help provide what is missing 

For this important fundraising campaign, Breakfast Club of Canada is also grateful for the generosity of the MTY Foundation, which will match donations until October 31. To raise public awareness, content will be shared on Breakfast Club of Canada’s website and social media channels throughout the campaign. 

This back-to-school season, you can help provide what is missing by making a donation to Breakfast Club of Canada. Starting today, anyone can donate by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by visiting breakfastclubcanada.org/. 

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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

 

With almost one in three children in Canada living in food-insecure households, Breakfast Club of Canada launches its annual fundraising campaign 

 

Boucherville, Quebec, August 18, 2026 – With the new school year just days away, Breakfast Club of Canada is launching its annual fundraising and awareness campaign at a time when one in three children in Canada lives in a household affected by food insecurity. Across Canada, nearly 2.4 million children face this reality. 

For children, back-to-school means new learning opportunities, new friendships and new possibilities. But for far too many of them, much more than breakfast is missing: they lack the essential energy they need to learn, the focus to participate fully and the feeling of being ready to succeed throughout the day. 

Faced with growing demand for breakfast programs, Breakfast Club of Canada aims to implement sustainable solutions to fight hunger at school. At a time when the cost of living is rising across the country, particularly as a result of inflation, it is essential to act where something is missing. That is why the Club is launching a fundraising and awareness campaign ahead of the new school year and inviting people to show solidarity so that children can eat breakfast every morning and reach their full potential. 

 

Food insecurity, inflation and the rising cost of living: Children and their families are missing essential resources 

At the start of the school year, as household expenses increase, access to adequate and nutritious food remains a challenge for many families. The Club currently supports 5,600 breakfast programs across Canada, reaching more than 940,000 children. In 2025–2026, 93% of schools reported seeing a positive impact from breakfast programs in supporting families with their morning routines or access to food. 

“Once again this year, Breakfast Club of Canada continues to pursue its vital mission: supporting children in reaching their full potential. No child should have to worry about whether they will have the opportunity to thrive, much less whether they will have access to breakfast. More than ever, our organization and our precious partners believe that an environment conducive to learning and success starts with a nutritious breakfast every morning,” said Julie Desharnais, President and Chief Executive Officer of Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

Nourishing Canada’s children through expertise rooted in responsibility and sustainability 

Breakfast Club of Canada is proud to support Canadian businesses through collaboration rooted in sustainability and diversity, with the help of partners located across the country. Breakfast menus are also planned and developed by the Club’s own expert committee. 

According to a 2026 economic study conducted by AppEco, in Canada, every dollar invested in breakfast programs supported by the Club generates nearly $2 in benefits for Canadians. 

“It is important for us to develop our own menus so that we can offer children the very best. Local sourcing also allows us to support Canadian businesses and our local economy, while meeting quality standards for variety and access to nutritious foods,” explained François Jolicoeur, Director, Programs and Operations at Breakfast Club of Canada. 

 

This year, help provide what is missing 

For this important fundraising campaign, Breakfast Club of Canada is also grateful for the generosity of the MTY Foundation and Les Producteurs de lait du Québec, which will match donations until October 31. To raise public awareness, content will be shared on Breakfast Club of Canada’s website and social media channels throughout the campaign. 

This back-to-school season, you can help provide what is missing by making a donation to Breakfast Club of Canada. Starting today, anyone can donate by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by visiting breakfastclubcanada.org/back-to-school. 

 

Alberta Press Release – Learn more

British Columbia Press Release – Learn more

Ontario Press Release –  Learn more

Quebec Press Release – Learn more

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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

 

 

The Business Community Committed to Children’s Well-being

TERREBONNE, QC, June 8, 2026 – Breakfast Club of Canada hosted the 28th edition of its Golf and Bike Classic today. More than 200 business leaders and public figures gathered under sunny skies at Le Mirage Golf Club in Terrebonne, raising an impressive amount of $281,275.

Presented by the Fondation Norman Fortier and Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton, Breakfast Club of Canada’s annual Classic brought together golf enthusiasts on the greens of Le Mirage Golf Club and cycling enthusiasts on the roads of the Terrebonne region, with the shared goal of ensuring that every child has access to a nutritious breakfast at school.

The Club’s President and CEO, Julie Desharnais, praised the sustained commitment of donors and partners to the organization’s mission: “Seeing collective mobilization around a cause as crucial as food security for future generations is particularly inspiring. Their generosity makes it possible to feed thousands of students every morning, so they have the energy to reach their full potential.”

Olympian and 2026 Snowboard World Cup gold medallist Elizabeth Hosking joined singer-songwriters Roch Voisine, Ludovick Bourgeois, Sylvain Cossette, and Andrée Watters, along with comedian, actor, and host Phil Roy, at the beautiful Le Mirage Golf Club.

“This cause is close to my heart because there was a breakfast program at my elementary school. The chance to sit down with your class and eat the same meal as your classmates can change children’s lives. I saw that firsthand. I wanted to get involved because it’s important to feel that way—to feel included,” said Elizabeth Hosking, the Olympic athlete from Longueuil.

 

A Dedicated Organizing Committee

Year after year, the energy and commitment of an organizing committee drawn from across the business community have helped make the Classic such a success, supporting more than 600 breakfast programs throughout Quebec. The Club extends its heartfelt thanks to:

  • Steve Bastien (NRJ Road Environment);
  • Martin Caron (Raymond Chabot Grand Thornton);
  • Ghislain Goulet (KOIECOM);
  • Martine Jalbert (event planning consultant);
  • Stéphane Jean (Multi-Prêts Hypothèques);
  • Caroline Leclair (Leclair Group);
  • Jean-Pierre Le Gresley (Martel & Martel).

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 .

 

SOURCE: Breakfast Club of Canada

For more information:

Thomas Benilan

Senior Advisor, Corporate Communications and Public Relations

thomas.benilan@clubdejeuner.org

Mobile: (438) 728-7228

For $1 invested in breakfast programs, nearly $2 is returned to communities

Boucherville, QC, March 31, 2026—An independent cost-benefit analysis has measured the net economic contribution of school breakfast programs delivered through strong public, private and community partnerships across Canada. These findings highlight measurable long-term benefits and reinforce the relevance of stable, sustained investment, as Parliament has adopted Bill C-15, including the National School Food Program Act.

Commissioned by Breakfast Club of Canada, the country’s largest school food program provider, and conducted by economists at AppEco, the report concludes that, nationally, for every dollar invested in school breakfast programs supported by the Club and its community partners, nearly $2 is generated in economic and social benefits. School food programs anchored in strong community partnerships generate significant social and economic returns.

“This report confirms what we see every day on the ground: School food programs are not an expense; they are a long-term investment in children, families and communities,” said Julie Desharnais, President and Chief Executive Officer of Breakfast Club of Canada. “The data clearly demonstrate that when children begin their day with a full stomach, the benefits extend far beyond the classroom and deliver lasting value for society.”

Measurable and lasting economic returns

The analysis projects health and economic outcomes over a 22-year period for a cohort of 78,207 Canadian students from kindergarten to Secondary V (Grade 12 outside Quebec), with and without access to school breakfasts. The findings of the study show that:

  • In Quebec, every$1 invested generates more than twice ($2.24) that amount in economic and social benefits. This higher benefit-cost ratio reflects efficiency gains from centralized delivery operations and procurement of breakfast items. These two factors lead to lower cost per breakfast, thereby maximizing the program’s societal impact.
  • In other provinces and territories, the benefit-cost ratio reaches approximately $1.60for each dollar spent. The result remains highly positive for school breakfast programs. That said, the comparatively lower ratio reflects more fragmented delivery mechanisms, differing funding structures, and higher estimated costs.

These positive results stem from three main sources of quantified benefits: increased disposable income for families, higher lifetime earnings linked to improved educational attainment, and reduced healthcare costs.

Immediate relief for families, long-term gains for society

By offsetting a portion of household food costs, school breakfast programs generate immediate financial relief for families. In Quebec alone, increased household disposable income is projected at a discounted value of $315 million, which exceeds the program’s total costs of $209 million over the 22-year projection period. On average, this represents $581 per child in annual savings for families.

This direct impact is made possible through the support of donors and community partners. By helping households offset rising food costs, these programs free up household income that can be redirected toward essential needs, such as housing, transportation and education.

The estimated long‑term benefits for education are equally convincing. According to the cost-benefit analysis, schoolchildren with consistent access to nutritious breakfasts are more likely to achieve higher levels of educational attainment. Over time, this academic advantage would translate into $39 million in additional income for more than 78,000 beneficiaries in a school breakfast program in Quebec, and $68.6 million for an identical cohort in the rest of Canada.

Reduced pressure on the healthcare system

The report also quantifies significant savings for the healthcare system. Regular access to breakfast is associated with lower rates of obesity, resulting in $114 million in avoided healthcare costs nationally over the 22-year period.

“From an economic standpoint, the results are clear,” said Pierre Emmanuel Paradis, Economist and Founding Partner at AppEco. “Under conservative assumptions, the estimated benefits of school breakfast programs systematically exceed their associated costs, confirming that these programs represent an efficient public policy intervention. In addition, the sensitivity analysis confirms the robustness of these findings across all the alternatives analyzed.”

In support of Canada’s National School Food Program

The results come as provinces continue deploying the National School Food Program, launched in 2024 with a $1-billion federal investment over five years and agreements now in place with all provinces and territories since March 2025. The Government of Canada has since committed to making the program permanent, with legislation now adopted and annual funding of $216.6 million.

“This report provides exactly the kind of compelling analysis public officials need to support long-term policy decisions,” said Judith Barry, Co-Founder and Director of Government Relations. “As provincial and federal governments move forward with greater support for school food programs, these results demonstrate that investing in school food is fiscally responsible, socially beneficial and generates long-term returns that far outweigh the initial costs. Expanding these collective efforts through the National School Food Program will have lasting impacts for generations to come.”

Public-private delivery models are working

In today’s shifting economic landscape, this report underscores that school nutrition programs represent high-impact, cost-effective investments in human capital—and should encourage donors across sectors to support proven solutions that deliver measurable returns for society.

This analysis is the first in Canada to estimate the comprehensive net economic contribution of school breakfast programs using a structured cost-benefit analysis framework and confirms that public, private and community-based school food programs are working. More importantly, the results underscore that an effective cost‑shared model must be anchored in mission-based collaboration, with each stakeholder playing a complementary role.

The full report, including the executive summary and detailed methodology, is available here.

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.

About AppEco

AppEco is a consulting firm specializing in economic and strategic analysis. It possesses in-depth technical expertise and delivers first-class services in applied economics: economic impact studies, surveys and polls, cost-benefit analyses, modelling, econometrics, pricing, etc. Its mission is to provide useful services that contribute to economic growth and the success of clients’ projects. AppEco works with firms of all sizes, from small to multinationals, as well as governments and non-profit organizations. Learn more at appeco.ca/en.

– 30 –

Source:          Breakfast Club of Canada

AppEco

Available for an interview: Pierre Emmanuel Paradis, AppEco
For media inquiries: Noémie Tétreault, ntetreault@national.ca, 514-632-9036

 

 

Boucherville – March 20, 2026 – Breakfast Club of Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of Isabelle Rayle-Doiron as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors.

With more than 30 years of international experience in legal and corporate affairs, Isabelle brings valuable expertise in community engagement, policy development and strategic partnerships. She currently serves as Senior Vice President, General Secretary & General Counsel at Danone Canada and has been a dedicated member of the Club’s Board of Directors since 2017, including serving as Chair of several committees.

Throughout her time on the Board, Isabelle has played an important role in supporting the organisation’s mission and strengthening its governance. Her thoughtful leadership and deep commitment to the cause have helped advance efforts to ensure that children across the country can start their school day with a nutritious breakfast.

“Isabelle’s passion and dedication are evident in every contribution she brings to the Board. Her appointment as Vice Chair reflects the leadership, insight and long-standing commitment she has shown in helping advance the Club’s mission,” stated Jacques Mignault, Chair of the Board.

In this role, Isabelle will work closely with the Chair and fellow Board members to help guide the organisation’s strategic priorities and continue building momentum for its mission in communities across Canada.

“Being part of the Board of Directors of an organisation and a cause that are so close to my heart is a true honour. I look forward to continue collaborating with my fellow Board members as we work together to ensure that even more children across the country can access a nutritious breakfast at school. Together, we are fueling their potential and their future,” shared Isabelle Rayle-Doiron, Vice Chair of the Board.

To learn more about Breakfast Club of Canada’s current Board members: Board of Directors

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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

 

 

Boucherville (QC), March 4, 2026 — Breakfast Club of Canada proudly celebrates 30 years of partnership with Danone Canada, a long-standing partner that has helped expand access to nutritious school breakfasts for children across Canada. 

Since 1996, Danone Canada has played a meaningful role in helping the Club evolve and strengthen its approach to school nutrition programs nationwide. Through sustained financial support, the donation of more than 30 million cups of yogurt – including 2.5 million in 2025 alone – and dedicated volunteer employee engagement, Danone Canada has contributed to creating breakfast programs that are consistent, inclusive and thoughtfully designed to meet the realities of each school community. 

“Thirty years of partnership represents more than longevity – it reflects a shared commitment to doing things well and with care,” said Judith Barry, Co-founder and Government Relations Director at Breakfast Club of Canada. “Danone Canada’s sustained support has helped us not only grow, but continuously strengthen the quality of our programs across the country. By raising awareness of our mission and the importance of school breakfast programs, they have helped ensure that children can count on a consistent, nutritious start to their day in an environment where they feel valued and supported.” 

Throughout the years, Danone Canada’s support has enabled the launch of 17 new breakfast programs in Indigenous communities, reaching close to 3,500 children each school morning. Developed in collaboration with local partners, these programs are grounded in community needs and focused on creating positive morning experiences that support children’s well-being and readiness to learn. “Danone’s mission to bring health through food to as many people as possible naturally reinforces our commitment to ensuring children across Canada have access to nutritious foods and the knowledge to build healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime,” said Frédéric Guichard, President at Danone Canada. “We are proud to support Breakfast Club of Canada with the food we make because we share the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to achieve their full potential, and that starts with a nutritious breakfast every day.”  

As the Club looks to the future, partnerships like this one remain essential to maintaining high standards, deepening impact and ensuring school breakfast programs continue to be spaces where children can thrive. 

Together, Breakfast Club of Canada and Danone Canada remain committed to building on this legacy, focusing on quality, care and lasting impact for the children, schools and communities they serve. 

 

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 .   

Exploring, tasting and growing: an approach that combines healthy eating and fun

BOUCHERVILLE, March 2, 2026 – As Dietitians of Canada launches its annual Nutrition Month campaign to promote healthy eating habits, Breakfast Club of Canada has joined the movement by highlighting initiatives aimed at serving nutritious and tasty food at school. With this in mind, the Club would also like to raise awareness among the population about the importance of school food programs and encourage them to actively contribute to the well-being of children. In 2025, 97% of the schools surveyed by the organization observed that breakfast programs had a positive influence on students’ eating habits, clearly illustrating the impact of these initiatives on their development.

As a growing number of families and children face food insecurity, access to nutritious food can be a daunting challenge. Household food insecurity is a major public health concern[1] and is affecting communities and institutions as well. According to Breakfast Club of Canada and its community partners, this reality also extends to schools, with one in three schools across the country struggling to access nutritious and affordable food. Breakfast programs are therefore an opportunity to create spaces that promote health and learning for children.

“Thanks to the expertise of its team of nutritionists, the Club supports schools in developing varied and nutritious menus by providing them with practical tools for choosing nutritious foods, recipe ideas that are tailored to their reality, and webinars and in-person training sessions to reinforce their daily practices,” said Catherine D’Amours, PDt, Senior Nutrition Advisor at Breakfast Club of Canada.

 

Sparking curiosity about food

By creating environments that are conducive to trying new things and talking about it, breakfast programs become powerful ways to improve food literacy. They not only help alleviate children’s hunger, but also shape their relationship with food by focusing on curiosity rather than coercion. This approach, which respects each child’s pace, promotes openness and confidence, and encourages them to enjoy eating.

Investing in initiatives that encourage exploring new foods means investing in the health and well-being of future generations. By increasing opportunities to expose children to nutritious foods in a caring and inclusive environment, the Club is laying the foundation for lasting habits, which will have an impact far beyond a child’s school years.

“Every bite is a learning opportunity. Through more positive experiences with food, children can develop varied preferences, which promotes a balanced diet and supports their growth, energy and ability to concentrate,” said Dr. Stephanie Liu, family physician and Breakfast of Canada’s ambassador.

 

Making nutrition the cornerstone of every initiative

Having been committed to this cause for 30 years, Breakfast Club of Canada supports a variety of support models through a vast network of partners across the country. It plans to continue its work to guarantee a complete and balanced food offering, including foods from the three categories in Canada’s Food Guide (fruits and vegetables, protein foods and whole grain foods), while promoting local sourcing and food self-sufficiency in communities.

For Nutrition Month, the Club encourages everyone to join this movement and recognize the meaningful impact of a nutritious breakfast. A donation allows children to benefit from the Club and the daily discoveries it provides, which have a lasting impact on their lives. Starting now, you can take concrete action to support a child’s journey by texting “CLUB” to 20222 or by making a donation at https://www.breakfastclubcanada.org/nutrition-month.

With community involvement at the heart of their corporate mission, our partner Croesus is lending their invaluable support to this campaign. They will double every donation made until March 31.[2] March 31. This means double the impact on local communities and the chance to help even more 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 sound governance and recognized by Aliments du Québec for its promotion of local food products, in addition to its efforts across Canada, the Club helps reach children in every province and territory across the country. Find out more on our website at breakfastclubcanada.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

 

For further information

Hermanie Desrosiers, Breakfast Club of Canada, 514-882-5218, hermanie.desrosiers@breakfastclubcanada.org

 

[1] Government of Canada, Health Promotion and Chronic Disease Prevention in Canada, Vol. 45, No. 9, September 2025.

[2] Up to $25,000.

Boucherville – February 13, 2026 – Breakfast Club of Canada is pleased to welcome Treena Amyotte (Regina, SK), Heather Fadali (Toronto, ON), Anik Lapointe (Montreal, QC) and Isobel O’Connell (Vancouver, BC) to its Board of Directors.  

“These appointments bring exceptional depth and diversity of expertise to the Club’s governance. Their collective experience and perspectives will strengthen the Board’s leadership and the work of its committees,” stated Jacques Mignault, Chair of the Board. 

With more than 20 years of experience spanning marketing, sponsorship, community investment, diversity and inclusion and business development, Treena Amyotte brings profound understanding and expertise in community engagement, policy development and strategic partnerships. She currently holds the position of Director of Indigenous Relations at SaskPower. 

Heather Fadali joins the Board with extensive executive management experience at leading Canadian brands, including Loblaw, Tim Hortons and Johnson & Johnson. She is known for driving growth through consumer insight, innovation and strategies that create both community and commercial impact. 

Currently Senior Vice-President of Internal Audit at the National Bank of Canada, Anik Lapointe is recognized for advancing strategic transformation and operational excellence. She has successfully led geographically dispersed teams and implemented scalable business models and leadership development initiatives. 

An experienced ESG leader, Isobel O’Connell brings more than 20 years of expertise in strategy and non-technical risk management across the energy, mining, infrastructure and maritime sectors. As Strategic Partner at Metagnosis Consulting, she helps organizations translate ESG priorities into resilience, stakeholder confidence and long-term value. 

“We are excited to welcome our newly appointed Board members. Their leadership and strategic perspective will be instrumental as the organization continues to grow. I look forward to working together to advance our mission and create a lasting impact for children across the country,” said Julie Desharnais, President and Chief Executive Officer of Breakfast Club of Canada. 

To learn more about Breakfast Club of Canada’s current Board members: Board of Directors 

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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