There’s no denying that students benefit from healthy nutritious meals before starting their day. For many, however, eating a healthy meal before school isn’t always an option. 

In support of school breakfast programs across Canada, the Grocery Foundation kicked off its Make Happy Tummies initiative (formally known as Toonies for Tummies) by serving breakfast to students at Admiral Seymour Elementary School on Jan. 21, 2025. 

In the early hours of the morning, members from the greater community gathered to whisk eggs and chop fruit in anticipation of the students’ arrival. Scrambled eggs, yogurt, fresh fruit, cereal, vegetables, juice, oatmeal and toast were all on the menu as students sat down to enjoy a healthy meal before class. 

“This [initiative] can definitely mean a lot to someone, especially if they can’t get breakfast at home,” says Ace, a Grade 7 student at Seymour. “It can definitely mean that the school can keep providing breakfast for them and help them have a good day.” 

Students at Seymour have been benefitting from a breakfast program for over 30 years, thanks to Tracey Bartlett. Tracey has been working in Seymour’s cafeteria since 1991 and started the school’s breakfast program in 1993. 

“When [students] get up in the morning, they know they can come to school and have something hot that will fill their tummies,” says Bartlett. 

The school kitchen was affectionally named “Cafe Tracey” in honour of all the hard work she does to support students every day. 

The Make Happy Tummies initiative officially began on Thursday, Jan. 23 and runs until April 17. Donations can be made in-person at participating grocery stores or online.