Cage Prevost, in Grade 12, says the food rescue course is quite fun and he’s heard nothing but positive things. (Sherry Haaima photos)
It’s an innovative program that has garnered praise beyond the walls of Renfrew Collegiate Institute (RCI).
Led by teacher Michael Wright, who just so happens to be president of the Renfrew and District Food Bank, the Food Rescue Experiential Learning course is doing exactly what its title suggests – rescuing food.
The school is partnering with the Renfrew and District Food Bank and Chris and Tanya’s No Frills for the new credit course that is rescuing produce that is beyond its sales point. The rescued food is turned into soups, chili, sauces, salad, fruit salad and veggie trays for both students and food bank clients.
It’s an opportune time to be stretching the life of food, Wright explained.
Every school day the students are rescuing three-to-six banana boxes of produce and turning it into hundreds of meals daily. Along with praise from the community and the benefits at the food bank, the course is making an impact at the school.
Cage Prevost, in Grade 12, says the class is quite fun and he’s heard nothing but positive things.
Having taken a foods class last year, he says he knows his way around a kitchen and was happy to be able to put his skills to good use.
Principal Neil Farmer described the program as “outstanding.”
There’s been plenty of praise for the course and discussions that other schools could launch similar programs in their communities.
Wright said the course is able to be delivered thanks to the provincial RELC (Recognition of Experiential Learning for Credit) program, which allows students to earn credits for hands-on, real-world application of transferable skills through experiential learning activities that are connected to a community or economic sector.
Anyone who would like to contribute is welcome to give to the food bank.
E-transfer donations to the food bank are welcome at donations@renfrewfoodbank.ca . More information on how to give can be found at renfrewfoodbank.ca
(Written by Sherry Haaima)
Clients of the Renfrew and District Food Bank, as well as students at RCI, benefit from the course.
Led by teacher Michael Wright, who is president of the Renfrew and District Food Bank, the Food Rescue Experiential Learning course is doing exactly what its title suggests – rescuing food.