Breakfast for a Child- Nourishing Minds, Transforming Futures
Breakfast is universally recognized as the most important meal of the day, especially for growing children. Yet, in many underprivileged communities, children begin their school day on an empty stomach, leading to fatigue, poor concentration, and diminished academic performance. Recognizing this critical issue, Priyobondhu launched the "Breakfast for a Child"initiative- a vital component of its survival and development program.
Objective- Ending Child Hunger Through Daily Nutrition
The program’s primary goal is to eliminate child hunger and reduce the incidence of breakfast skipping by providing a wholesome, nutritious morning meal. Each breakfast includes a balanced variety of high-fiber, nutrient rich whole grains, fresh fruits, and dairy essential components of a child’s daily nutritional needs. A consistent, nourishing breakfast has been shown to improve cognitive function, enhance memory, boost attention spans, and support academic achievement, while also fostering better school attendance and participation.
The Impact of Hunger on Children
Child hunger remains one of the most urgent and deeply entrenched issues affecting learning and development. Chronic undernourishment can hinder physical growth, delay developmental milestones, and compromise mental and emotional health. Malnourished children may become sluggish, irritable, or socially withdrawn, and are more prone to behavioral disorders such as hyperactivity, anxiety, and aggression. The consequences often extend beyond the individual child, families living in poverty frequently experience food insecurity, purchasing cheaper but less nutritious options, which perpetuates a cycle of poor health and limited opportunity.
Origins and Expansion
The "Breakfast for a Child" program was inaugurated on August 29, 2017, under the guidance of consultant nutritionist Gitima Saikia, at Kailashpur LP School, located in Narakasur Pahar, Kahilipara, Guwahati, Assam. Since then, the program has grown and is now operational at Priyobondhu Bohumukhi Bidyalay, a sister concern of Priyobondhu, where it continues to serve children with compassion and care each school morning.
A Foundation for Learning and Life
The essence of this program lies in its simple yet transformative mission- to eradicate breakfast skipping and empower children to thrive academically, physically, and emotionally. By addressing the root causes of hunger and ensuring that no child begins their day without a nourishing meal, Priyobondhu lays the foundation for long term educational success and holistic well being.
As we nourish their bodies, we also nurture their potential one breakfast at a time.