3 days ago
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- Hamilton Spectator
A Village That Feeds: Breakfast Bash 2025 Raises Over $95K for Student Nutrition in Halton
Halton Food for Thought's 2025 Breakfast Bash brought more than just early-morning cheer to the Oakville Conference Centre on May 27 — it brought together a community with a shared mission: ensuring that no student in Halton starts the day hungry. With over 400 attendees and a festive atmosphere, the annual fundraising event exceeded its $95,000 goal and may climb even higher as final donations roll in.
For Aliya Khawari, executive director of Halton Food for Thought (HFFT), this marked her first Breakfast Bash since stepping into the role in 2024. Her takeaway? Enthusiasm and heart.
'You could feel the energy in the room,' Khawari said. 'We have students, parents, volunteers, educators, and community leaders all here for one reason — to support student nutrition. It's a celebration of what's possible when a community comes together to make sure every child is cared for.'
HFFT currently supports student nutrition programs across four school boards: Halton District School Board (HDSB), Halton Catholic District School Board (HCDSB), Viamonde, and MonAvenir, with the latter two representing Halton's growing Francophone population. 'The last three years have seen more French immersion schools joining the program,' Khawari shared. 'That's a beautiful sign of growth and inclusion.'
Student engagement and parent involvement are at the heart of HFFT's mission, and this year's Breakfast Bash brought that philosophy to life. From the lively blender bike demonstrations by students from St. Ignatius of Loyola Catholic Secondary School to parents connecting with fellow volunteers who share the same goal — ensuring students are well-fed and ready to learn — the spirit of community was unmistakable. Meanwhile, Appleby College offered a sampling from its student-prepared breakfast menu, giving guests a literal taste of student leadership in action.
Ten food vendors served up everything from yogurt parfaits and scrambled eggs to chicken and waffles, with Jackson's Landing and longtime partner Joe Dog's Gasbar Grill among the returning favourites.
Kristina Graham, a 12-year volunteer who organizes vendor outreach, says much of the support is built on relationships that deepen with time. 'Most of our vendors come back year after year,' said Graham. 'Joe Dog's has not only stayed with us for a decade — they've brought new restaurants into the fold. That kind of commitment speaks volumes.'
She emphasized the deeper impact of the program beyond the food. 'The breakfast before school isn't just about nutrition, it's a social connection. Students sit together, talk, laugh, and start their day with community.'
The powerful impact of HFFT was echoed in the stories shared by HDSB students who spoke during the event. Each expressed how the program has positively impacted their lives, fostering a sense of civic and social engagement.
For schools like River Oaks Public School in Oakville, the Breakfast Bash is a reminder of the year-round work being done. Teacher Richard Bernard has led his grade 8 students in running their school's nutrition program for over a decade. 'I wanted my students to see themselves as leaders, to know their actions make their school better,' Bernard said. 'It's about empathy, ownership, and community.'
His students not only distribute food, but they also serve as role models, building connections with younger students and setting the tone for a supportive school environment. 'These kids are an important part of making our school one of the best places to learn,' Bernard added.
The Halton District School Board and Halton Catholic District School Board were both present in full support, with Director of Education Curtis Ennis attending alongside board members. Tables were sponsored by both boards, and a lively silent auction helped bring in additional funds.
Looking ahead, Khawari emphasized that
Halton Food for Thought
has ambitious goals. 'We want to raise at least one dollar per student in the region — that's about $97,000. But more importantly, we want to eliminate the waitlist. Our vision is to onboard every new school that wants to join the program within six months.'
She added a heartfelt message to the attendees: 'Just have fun and enjoy today. Look around and see the village that supports you, because it really does take a village.'
And on this morning, that village showed up with full hearts — and full plates.
