2, 4, 6, 8 ... Breakfast Club, can't wait!
4 July 2007
A breakfast club launched at Reservoir East Primary School on 29 May by Melbourne Citymission has been an instant hit with local families.
The three-day-a-week program, known as the “2, 4, 6, 8 Breakfast Club”, is attracting around 40 children each day – about one-quarter of the school’s total enrolment.
Milk, cereal, toast, fruit and yogurt are among the breakfast offerings. In an average week, the club ‘members’ make their way through up to 14 litres of milk and up to eight loaves of bread.
It’s a happy and healthy start to the day for the students, many of whom used to skip breakfast. In fact, some children who previously used to arrive late for school, now get there on time because they enjoy the program – and the social interaction – so much.
But it’s not just the children and the teachers who are reaping the benefits of “2, 4, 6, 8”, according to Anne Turley, Chief Executive Officer, Melbourne Citymission.
“The other great news is that we’ve been able to create some new jobs in a neighbourhood that has traditionally experienced high rates of unemployment,” Ms Turley said.
“Seven local residents have been employed to run the breakfast club and in just a few weeks, they can already see lots of exciting opportunities opening up for them.
“They have all received accredited training in food handling and food safety. Over coming months they’ll be able to explore other opportunities to secure long-term employment. This could include additional training, access to mentoring programs or work experience to further develop their skills.
“The future is wide open for the breakfast club team – just brimming with potential. Some may well end up running their own small businesses as a result.”
The “2, 4, 6, 8 Breakfast Club” is part of the Reservoir East Neighbourhood Renewal program and is a joint initiative of the Reservoir East Primary School community, the school’s hard-working planning group, and Melbourne Citymission. Funding is provided by the State Government, through the Department of Human Services, Neighbourhood Renewal Initiative.
Melbourne Citymission has a long-standing partnership with Reservoir East Primary School. Over the past two years, the organisations have worked together to establish an after-school club that offers homework support, a weekly playgroup, a weekly English conversation class and school holiday programs.
ENDS
Contact Information:
Deborah Fewster
Media and Advocacy Adviser
Melbourne Citymission
Mobile 0403 839 427
