Helping little learners start the day nourished

YOUNG Buninyong residents have been starting their day with a hearty breakfast thanks to the support of a local community bank.

Children at Buninyong Uniting Kindergarten are enjoying meals through the Healthy Hearts Breakfast Program, which is backed by Community Bank Buninyong.

Program coordinator Mel Dreger said the initiative began when she and kindergarten teacher Louise Jackson were considering ways to better support the children.

“Several years ago, Louise noticed that a group of boys were often hungry and finding it hard to engage in learning,” she said. “Breakfast at kinder isn’t just about food. It’s a gentle, cosy way for children to settle into the day, sit with friends, chat, smile, and feel safe and secure as they ease into the rhythm of the program.

“Breakfast at kinder ensures every child starts the day nourished, with dignity and a shared sense of belonging.”

Mrs Dreger said about 75 per cent of children have one or two small serves of breakfast at kindergarten each day.

The breakfast offering includes non-perishable options such as cereals, with allergy requirements and individual needs accommodated.

Community Bank Buninyong has provided support for the program, which is now in its third year.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Community Bank Buninyong for their generosity and ongoing support. Without this funding, the program simply wouldn’t exist,” Mrs Dreger said. “We applied through the bank’s grant application process and were fortunate to be successful, allowing the program to become a reality.”

Community Bank Buninyong’s partnerships lead Kelly Bevan said the bank was proud to support the initiative.

“It means children will have something to eat before they start the day, feeling a little bit more settled, which helps with learning outcomes,” she said.