According to Food For Thought, more than 2,000 children currently attend public primary schools in the Turks & Caicos Islands, however, as many as 20% of school age children in the country do not have breakfast before school. The absence of this important meal can affect the physical and mental development, concentration and ultimately the overall academic performance and future earning potential of these children.

The non-profit-organisation provides free breakfast to approximately 300 children in North Caicos, Middle Caicos, South Caicos and Salt Cay every school day.

The menu is designed to provide a nutritious and balanced breakfast. After the Breakfast Program commenced in September 2016, school teachers reported an improvement in the students’ attention, focus and attendance.

The charity’s website states: “the latest Turks & Caicos Islands Poverty Assessment Survey in 2012 showed that 16% of households live in poverty. Households with children accounted for over half of those poor households. It also showed that 60% of households have problems paying for at least one essential household expense, including food.

Many families simply cannot afford to provide proper nourishment for their children. Not only is the earning potential of children likely to be hindered due to the difficulty to learn if not properly nourished, but the cost of lost productivity to the economy is substantial.”

To learn more about the program and donate, visit www.foodforthoughttci.com.