The Weekend Gap

1 in 6 Canadian children lives in a food-insecure household.

For these kids, weekends can mean long hours without enough to eat—and the effects show up quickly.

Hunger doesn’t just cause discomfort. It makes it harder for children to concentrate in school, manage their emotions, and stay healthy over time. Teachers often notice the difference on Monday mornings when students who faced a weekend without enough food are more tired, more distracted, and less ready to learn.

Access to reliable, nutritious food doesn’t just fill stomachs - it supports healthy development.

• Nutritious meals fuel brain development and emotional stability 
• Well-fed children are more likely to attend school consistently 
• Children feel valued and cared for when their basic needs are met