The Hastings and Prince Edward (HPE) Learning Foundation is launching a critical volunteer recruitment push in preparation for September, so students can start their first day of school off right, with the nutrition they need to thrive. Food for Learning needs YOUR help in schools to successfully support vital nutrition programs, and to ensure every local student can EAT. LEARN. SUCCEED.
Serving an average of 7,100 students daily and providing over 1.7 million meals and snacks annually, Food for Learning supports 100% of publicly funded schools across Hastings and Prince Edward counties. As student participation increases, the demand for volunteer power has never been greater to ensure these vital programs remain sustainable. Without the consistency and dependability of Food for Learning programs, students lose access to essential nutrition and an environment that fosters emotional regulation, social skills, and academic focus.
“Student nutrition programs are about so much more than just food—they are about fostering healthy habits, creating a sense of belonging, and keeping students engaged in their learning,” says Vicky Struthers, Program Coordinator. “Without a strong, dedicated group of volunteers in every school across Hastings and Prince Edward counties, students simply will not have access to these vital programs.”
A new volunteer recruitment video was made possible after The HPE Learning Foundation won the A1 Plumbing “In the Community Initiative” this past March. Following a successful community voting campaign, The Learning Foundation secured a $500 donation and a professionally produced video by Brian Lavender of Lavender Lane Media. The Learning Foundation is using this video to celebrate current volunteers and highlight the profound impact they have on local school communities.
See what it takes to power student success. Watch this short video to take a look behind the scenes, and discover how you can make a difference in the lives of local students.
“By volunteering, you are making a lifelong impact,” Struthers adds. “We are actively recruiting right now for September 2026. Because Vulnerable Sector Police Checks take time to process, we need to get started today to ensure schools have the support they need this fall. Please volunteer—we need you, and the students need you.”
To watch the video and learn more about how your time can shape a student’s future,
To learn more about Food for Learning programs, please contact Vicky Struthers, Program Coordinator, at vstruthers@hpelf.ca.
To begin the volunteer application process, please contact Ashlyn Elmy, Volunteer and Outreach Coordinator, at aelmy@hpelf.ca.
Your time. Their future.
