Message From Tony
4,100 more kids in Newfoundland and Labrador will now get healthy meals at school.
When kids eat well, they do better in school. And when kids do well in school, they succeed.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, and the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, Andrew Furey, last week announced an agreement to expand school food programs in the province. This agreement, under the National School Food Program, will result in 4,100 more kids in Newfoundland and Labrador getting healthy meals this school year.
Participating families with two kids will save an estimated $800 a year, on average. It will mean lower grocery bills for families and school meals for kids – helping them learn, grow, and get the best start in life.
Newfoundland and Labrador is the first province to reach an agreement with the federal government through the new National School Food Program. This initial investment of approximately $9.1 million over three years will help more kids get access to school food.
We plan to work with all provinces and territories to reach agreements so parents can save money while knowing their children will be getting healthy meals at school. This is another example of how government can support families, lower the cost of living, and provide opportunities for a better, healthier life.
With an investment of $1 billion over five years, the National School Food Program, announced in Budget 2024, will feed up to 400,000 more kids across Canada every year. The Program will also be a safety net for the kids who are most impacted by the lack of access to food, including lower-income families and some Indigenous communities.
The agreement announced last week is a wonderful example of what can be accomplished when governments work together in the interest of Canadians. Helping students across Newfoundland and Labrador to reach their full potential, on a full stomach is good for parents, kids, teachers, and the economy.
This announcement is good for parents, kids, teachers, and the economy. Alongside this, we’re bringing down the cost of living, building more homes, investing in affordable dental care, and helping every generation get a fair shot. I look forward to more provinces and territories joining the program to deliver healthy meals at schools through the National School Food Program.
Celebrating the art of theatre in Newmarket
Last week, I was honoured to join the Newmarket International Festival of One Act Plays for their opening night, and to see the wonderful talent of several actors, directors, and more. I am impressed how this International Festival of One Act Plays has grown, and the significance it has taken on within the theatrical world.
The Festival delivered another knock out season, and I applaud their efforts in encouraging and facilitating the performing arts. I’m also looking forward to their continued success in upcoming seasons.
Thank you, Tom Pearson, President of The Very Useful Theatre Company, and to all volunteers. We appreciate your commitment to providing rich cultural experiences, ensuring our community continues to be a great place to be entertained.
Bank of Canada lowers interest rates for the third time
The Bank of Canada’s decision to lower interest rates last week is welcome news for Canadians. Our responsible plan to create the economic conditions for interest rates to come down is working. We’re on the right path.
Canada was the first G7 country to cut interest rates, and the first G7 country to do so a third time. This is good news for homeowners who currently have mortgages that need to be renewed, for first-time home buyers, and for businesses.
In July, inflation in Canada fell to 2.5 per cent, marking seven consecutive months within the Bank of Canada’s target range. And Canadian workers have, on average, larger paycheques than they did before the pandemic — even after accounting for inflation.
Our government is building on Canada’s strong economic and fiscal position to make the investments Canadians need – in housing, in affordability, in economic growth – so that every generation has a fair chance at success.
Submit your applications for the New Horizons for Seniors Program!
Seniors have made and continue to make significant and valuable contributions to their families, communities, and workplaces. Our government remains committed to helping local organizations continue to empower seniors, promote engagement within their communities, and contribute to their health and well-being.
There are are only two days left to apply for the New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP), which provides up to $25,000 in grants for community organizations with projects that make a difference in the lives of seniors and in their community. Projects must:
- be no longer than 52 weeks
- request no more than $25,000
- meet at least one program objective
- seniors will lead or play a vital role in its planning and/or delivery
- seek to benefit seniors and communities
- demonstrate cost effectiveness
I encourage eligible organizations to finalize and submit their applications before the deadline on September 12th, 2024 at 3 PM, Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
