Inspiring strong, resilient kids in body and mind Inspiring strong, resilient kids in both body and mind

Feeding Young Minds Initiative

In response to the growing food security issues in Toronto, TPL is now providing regular healthy food options at three select branches during child and youth-focused programs, giving kids the fuel they need to succeed. For children, food insecurity is associated with delays in emotional, cognitive and motor development, higher levels of hyperactivity, inattention and poor memory, and higher rates of chronic illness.

We are grateful to the Moez and Marissa Kassam Foundation, Lead Supporters of Toronto Public Library’s new Feeding Young Minds initiative.

Moez and Marissa Kassam are deeply committed to realizing an equitable world where everyone has access to opportunities and no one is left behind.  With a particular focus on children and immigrant and diverse communities, Moez and Marissa are especially concerned about the lack of food security among families in Toronto, and the impact on children’s ability to thrive.  We’re excited to partner with them.

Learn more about the Moez and Marissa Kassam Foundation

TPL branches participating in the Feeding Young Minds pilot project:

1515 Albion Road, Etobicoke

The Feeding Young Minds fund is currently providing nutritious snacks for children and youth at three library branches. This pilot initiative also supports the vital programs that bring these kids to TPL.

 

20 Covington Road, Toronto

Essential programs like TPL’s After School Clubs, available at several library branches, ensures that kids feel actively involved, competent and capable, and that they develop new skills and interests.

30 Sewells Road, Scarborough 

With their support, Moez and Marissa are removing barriers to nutritious snacks for children living in high-needs neighbourhoods and offering an important reason to bring these kids together weekly to socialize, learn and grow.

 

“By helping kids establish healthy eating habits early in life, we will support their development and help them achieve their dreams.”

Adam van Koeverden
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health

 

We are grateful to Lead Donor, the Moez and Marissa Kassam Foundation, for their visionary support in establishing the Feeding Young Minds Initiative. We are also grateful to Supporting Donors, Phil Cowperthwaite and Susan Hunter, Adrian and Ange Rocca, J.P. Bickell Foundation, and Linda Dagg and Kenneth Wiener for their commitment to this program.