Item - 2024.HL16.9
Tracking Status
- City Council adopted this item on October 9, 2024 with amendments.
- This item was considered by Board of Health on September 9, 2024. It is being forwarded to City Council without recommendations. It will be considered by City Council on October 9, 2024.
HL16.9 - Critical Need For Universal Student Nutrition
- Decision Type:
- ACTION
- Status:
- Amended
- Wards:
- All
City Council Decision
City Council on October 9 and 10, 2024, adopted the following:
1. City Council receive the supplementary report (October 2, 2024) from the Medical Officer of Health for information.
Background Information (Board)
https://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2024/hl/bgrd/backgroundfile-248556.pdf
Background Information (City Council)
https://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2024/cc/bgrd/backgroundfile-249164.pdf
Motions (City Council)
That City Council adopt the recommendation in the report (October 2, 2024) from the Medical Officer of Health [HL16.9a]:
1. City Council receive this report for information.
HL16.9 - Critical Need For Universal Student Nutrition
- Decision Type:
- ACTION
- Status:
- Without Recs
- Wards:
- All
Board Recommendations
The Board of Health forwards this item to City Council without recommendation.
Decision Advice and Other Information
The Board of Health:
1. Requested the Medical Officer of Health to report directly to the October 9, 2024 meeting of City Council with a phased in plan to implement a universal school food program in January 2025 if federal funds flow by November 2024, including prioritization of the more than forty school communities that recently applied for a program and were denied due to lack of funding.
Origin
Summary
In Toronto, 28% of food bank users are children and youth, leading to more kids going to school on an empty stomach. Hunger impedes learning, making it difficult for students to concentrate on their education. Student nutrition programs play a crucial role by providing meals at school, allowing children to focus on their lessons rather than their hunger. As grocery prices rise and more families rely on food banks, it is imperative that funding flow to address student nutrition immediately.
Background Information
https://www.toronto.ca/legdocs/mmis/2024/hl/bgrd/backgroundfile-248556.pdf