(December 13, 2022, St. John’s) – Barry Petten, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister for Education and MHA for Conception Bay South, says he’s concerned about reports of hungry students at the province’s schools, as the cost of living crisis grows in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“The School Lunch Association is reporting 2,100 children whose families are unable to contribute to cover the cost of meals the Association provides to over 6,500 students a day in our province. The program is a critical service, which many times gives the only hot meals some students will see in a day,” said Petten.

“The number of families unable to contribute is clear evidence the cost of living crisis in our province has hit new heights. Between increased cost for food and now less families being able to contribute due to the cost of living crisis, it’s a difficult situation for the Association, which provides a critical service.”

Petten says more resources are needed to ensure sustainability for the Association.

“The School Lunch Association is a great equalizer for families in our province: regardless of the circumstances at home, a student needs a full stomach to learn throughout the day, which is provided by the Association,” said Petten.

“Children risk going hungry as families continue to strain under the pressure of the rising cost of living in Newfoundland and Labrador. Families need more support and important services like the School Lunch Association need security to ensure a bright future for students in Newfoundland and Labrador.”

-30-

Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca