Paula Bennett

28 May, 2013

Breakfast programme part of the solution

Social Development Minister Paula Bennett believes the Government has struck the right balance by supporting the KickStart Breakfast expansion.

“This is a genuine partnership between the Government, the community and New Zealand business which will benefit children,” says Mrs Bennett.

The KickStart Breakfast programme will increase from two to five mornings a week in decile one to four schools. Higher decile schools that want and need it, can opt in during 2014.

Government will back the programme with resources, Fonterra and Sanitarium will distribute the food, and communities will run the breakfasts and provide the bowls and spoons needed.

“Parents are responsible for feeding their children. But we can’t ignore the fact that some children turn up hungry and can’t learn on an empty stomach.”

“We don’t want to replace parental responsibility, but the Government, community, non-government organisations and business partners all have a shared responsibility for children,” says Mrs Bennett.

The cost to the Government is up to $9.5 million over five years, matched in value by Fonterra and Sanitarium.

“I’m delighted we’re also increasing our investment in KidsCan to $1.5 million over three years to provide children with basic necessities like raincoats and shoes,” Mrs Bennett says.

“I have huge respect for the work they do and the way they do it.”

“Stepping in to provide breakfast to children is not a solution to poverty, but it does fit into a vast programme of initiatives and policies targeted to vulnerable and low income families with children.”

The Government has a strong record over the past four and a half years of targeting assistance and support to those who need it most. Budget 2013 included further initiatives targeted to low income families like:

• $100 million to extend the home insulation programme

• $24 million for rheumatic fever prevention

• $41 million for ECE for vulnerable children

• $35 million for carers of children

• Low and no interest loan options

“We will continue to do everything we can to ensure New Zealand children grow up healthy, happy and well cared for. Parents and the community need to do their part, too,” says Mrs Bennett.

Government response to the Expert’s Advisory Group on Solutions to Child Poverty:

http://www.beehive.govt.nz/feature/government_response_children_commissioner_expert_advisory_group_solutions_child_poverty

ENDS

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