Why give?
Why Summer?
For 10 months of the year, school food programs provide children with essential nutrition support and routine. When school ends, so do these critical supports, leaving a gap that can affect a child’s health, learning, and well-being. Summerlunch+ steps in during this important time, tackling food insecurity, learning loss, and social isolation head-on.
Helping with Food Affordability
Each summer Over 600,000 children in Ontario lose access to school meals. We provide families with fresh ingredients through meal kits or grocery gift cards to reduce financial pressure and ensure kids stay nourished. No income proof is required, ensuring an inclusive, dignified experience for all families.
Combatting Summer Learning Loss
Children facing food insecurity are at greater risk of “summer slide” the loss of academic progress over the break. Our hands-on food literacy and cooking classes keep minds engaged and skills growing, helping kids return to school confident and ready to learn.
Alleviating Social Isolation
For families with limited access to camps or enrichment programs, summer can be lonely. summerlunch+ creates joyful, connected experiences through our programming, bringing kids together, strengthening families, and building a sense of belonging that lasts beyond the season.
Why Diabetes and Lifestyle?
Managing diabetes as a child takes more than insulin. It requires daily choices, strong food skills, and long-term support. Yet many families don’t have access to the tools they need. Our diabetes program empowers children with the knowledge, confidence, and a community of kids, with shared experiences, to take charge of their health.
Developing Essential Food Skills
Food literacy is at the heart of diabetes management. Through guided, hands-on cooking, kids learn to prepare balanced, diabetes-friendly meals at home. They build skills that help them feel confident, capable, and in control of their own health.
Improving Health Outcomes
Participants learn how to read food labels, count carbohydrates, and pair foods to stabilize blood sugar levels. These skills support better daily management and long-term outcomes—preventing complications and promoting healthier futures.
Fostering Community Support
Diabetes can be isolating, especially for kids. Our virtual classes bring children together in a safe, supportive space where they can share experiences, ask questions, and build friendships that last beyond the program.