The Dryden Native Friendship Centre has become a leader in the community in providing kids with a healthy meal.
Executive Director Cheryl Edward talked about the importance of their Youth Nutrition Programs during a virtual Rotary Club meeting Wednesday.
“Kids in the Kitchen. Youth Food Boxes. Food Boxes Through the Schools and that’s within Open Roads, Dryden High School, that type of thing. And we also have weekend food boxes for some of our youth in these programs where food security is an issue.
Edward adds “We have Snack Corner here when we are open to the public. We do have fruits, vegetables and snacks available for anyone to pick-up.”
She notes they have individual programs for specific groups between the ages of 4 to 18 and all incorporate food and healthy snacks.
COVID-19 has forced the Native Friendship Centre to make some changes but Edward states they have been able to adjust.
Edward says one change saw staff buy goods to cook at home in order to host online classes for kids.
She says the the virtual teaching has been well received and they may continue the initiative once the pandemic clears.
Staff at the Centre have also been able to provide an average of 40-50 bagged lunches for families in need.
Edward stressed food security is a big issue in the population that they service and for some the NFC is the only resource that provides healthy food choices.
“Healthy foods are expensive and with food costs increasing many families resort to purchasing foods that are quick to prepare and less expensive. Unfortunately many of these foods are also not as healthy.”
Edward says a recent $2,500 donation from the Dryden Rotary Club has allowed them to provide healthy snacks and food for kids in our area.
She notes they always accept nutritious food donations and thanks everyone for their support.
The Dryden Native Friendship Centre also has a new phone number.
You can call 1-888-838-3632 for more information on NFC programming and services.
