Organizers of Chatham-Kent’s student nutrition program are reflecting on a year of success and support.
Officials with the VON Southwest Region say their expanded Cultural Enhancement project has seen a rise in diverse and culturally relevant menu items and resources.
In addition to menu enhancements, OSNP and Growing Chefs! have developed culturally responsive resources for school coordinators and volunteers. These tools include inclusive recipe guides, ingredient sourcing support, and culturally informed preparation practices developed in consultation with community members and cultural food leaders.
The Ontario Student Nutrition Program’s School Food Delivery Program has expanded to offer culturally responsive menu items and resources to schools in 12 school boards across OSNP’s Southwest Region.
Officials say schools across the Southwest, including Chatham-Kent, are embracing the tools and have expressed enthusiasm about diversifying their student nutrition programs to better reflect the multicultural makeup of Ontario and their school communities.
The program is part of OSNP’s broader commitment to its Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Framework, ensuring all students feel affirmed, represented, and well-nourished through inclusive nutrition programming.