Finn Valley College in Stranorlar has been praised for a new student wellbeing initiative that tackles hunger in the classroom.
The school is providing free breakfasts each morning alongside cut-price lunches. Canteen lunches at the school have been reduced to between 50c – €2.
The measures have been taken to help students get nutritious food each day and fuel their focus in class.
The school emphasises that a well-fueled mind is ready to learn.
“We’re here to support students with meals that help them stay focused, stay energised, and do their best!,” said the school announcement, which also praised their canteen staff.
“We are so lucky to have one of the best chefs in the country….Ms Oonagh Guinan, along with great canteen staff Noreen, Tanya and Nuala!”
The school is actively encouraging students to avail of the free breakfast and affordable lunch options. Each morning, students are offered a variety of free breakfast options, including cereals, hot porridge, warm crusty rolls, orange juice, and tea or coffee.
As FVC’s core values are equality, care and respect, the initiative also aims to address the growing financial strain on families by ensuring all students have access to nutritious food.
Recent figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) reveal a further rise in poverty in Ireland, particularly in the North West. The latest Survey on Income and Living Conditions (SILC) 2024 shows the at-risk-of-poverty rate has increased to 11.7%, up from 10.6% in 2023. Nearly one in five people (18.9%) in the Northern and Western region are now living below the poverty line.
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