BAHAMAS NATIONAL SCHOOL BREAKFAST PILOT PROGRAMME EXPANDED

WASHINGTON, D.C., March 8, 2024 — Prime Minister Philip E. Davis today posted a collection of photos on his Facebook page that I had to share with readers of my Washington, D.C. – based online publication, BAHAMAS CHRONICLE, which has a huge following among the Bahamian diaspora across the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom as well as in The Bahamas and the wider Caribbean:

In the narrative accompanying the photos, the Prime Minister noted, “Our kids are watching us and nothing matters more than how we show up for them. That’s why I’m proud to announce the expansion of our National School Breakfast Pilot programme. Since we began last year, we have served more than 55,000 hot breakfasts in New Providence and the Family Islands. Our next phase will reach 2,300 more children, and those attending participating schools in the Family Islands will now be served free breakfast five days a week.”

The Prime Minister added, “I’ve heard so many stories about the impact of this programme – from children who can concentrate better on their schoolwork, from parents who feel some relief from the high cost of living, and from educators who have seen attendance numbers improve. And to the little boy who suggested we add hot chocolate to the menu, thanks for the great idea. I’ll work on that!”

Starting April 7, the National School Breakfast Pilot programme will be expanded to five additional schools. Students from C.W. Sawyer, Stephen Dillet Primary, Woodcock Primary, Yellow Elder Primary, and E.P. Roberts Primary will enjoy nutritious breakfasts for the rest of the academic year.

“All of our children should have the opportunity to reach for their dreams – and we know that when they begin their day with a warm breakfast, we are supporting their health, their learning, and their progress”, Prime Minister Davis said. “Let’s continue investing in our children, one meal at a time!”