Nutrition in the early years doesn’t just help kids day to day. It’s the foundation for emotional and physical health for the rest of their lives.
That’s according to the World Health Organization, which states that healthy nutrition in the first three years of life is particularly important due to its role in lowering morbidity and mortality, reducing the risk of chronic disease throughout their life span and promoting regular mental and physical development.

The Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre understands that, and that is why its First Bites campaign is held in February every year raising funds to help children as they grow. All funds donated this month are matched by Canpotex, up to $50,000. Saskatoon Food Bank spokesperson, Shelby Anderson, says the First Bites Campaign supports the city’s youngest and most vulnerable residents.

The Food Bank helps about 23,000 people a month and 41 per cent are children. You can donate online or stop by the Food Bank on Avenue C South, or you can host a food drive. Click on the link for more details. Food donations could include meat, fruit or vegetable purees, baby cereals, crackers and puffs, and other toddler-safe non-perishable foods.