by: Ms. Janvarica B. Acop
The Blue Plate Project, an initiative by Sacred Heart School – Ateneo de Cebu, embodies our commitment to creating a brighter future for young minds. It is a school-based feeding program designed to provide free mid-day meals to preschool and grade school students in our partner schools who are classified as wasted or severely wasted. This impactful program not only addresses critical issues of malnutrition and stunted growth among Filipino learners but also uplifts the well-being and educational journey of our student beneficiaries.
Our statistics show the urgency of the matter. In Mandaue City, according to the Expanded National Nutrition Surveys in 2018 and 2019, a startling 1 in every 3 children is stunted. The Blue Plate Project stands as a beacon of hope within these alarming numbers.
Image 1 & 2: GS students serving meals in Cubacub Elementary School.
Image 3 & 4: JHS students serving meals in Casili Elementary School.
With a well-structured framework in place, we’ve made significant strides in this noble endeavor. Since its inception in 2015, the program’s pilot beneficiary, Cubacub Elementary School, has witnessed the positive transformation of 718 student beneficiaries. The heartwarming aspect is that the program is not just about feeding the young minds but also involves parents of the student beneficiaries who voluntarily dedicate their time to prepare meals every day, following a set schedule. Their active involvement in nurturing the children’s health and well-being is truly inspiring.
In a significant development this year, thanks to the unwavering support of our generous benefactors, the Blue Plate Project has expanded its reach to two additional partner schools: Casili Elementary School and Pagsabungan Elementary School. These schools were recommended by DEPED Mandaue and Mandaue City Mayor’s Office. As a result, we’re now catering to a total of 408 wasted and severely wasted students across these schools, promising even more profound impact on their lives and futures. With this expansion, our collective effort will be nourishing and empowering 408 student beneficiaries across our three partner schools this school year, further solidifying our commitment to making a real and lasting difference in the lives of these young learners.
Partner School | Number of Wasted and Severely Wasted Students |
Cubacub Elementary School | 139 (34%) |
Casili Elementary School | 78 (19%) |
Pagsabungan Elementary School | 191 (47%) |
Total | 408 (100%) |
This initiative is not just about addressing malnutrition; it’s about making a real difference in the lives of our students. It is a testament to the heart of our institution, and we are excited to share the growth and positive outcomes this project continues to achieve. With your continued support, we are confident in creating a future filled with hope and promise for these young minds.
Image 5 & 6: Teachers and parent volunteers from Pagsabungan and Cubacub ES.
The Blue Plate Project: Nurturing hope, one plate at a time.
