One of the School Lunch Association's most important partners is the parents of the children we feed. The comments we receive from them not only provide us valuable insight into how to better serve the students, but are also constant reminders of why we must continue the work we do. Many comments echo the reality of the financial hardships that befall countless families every year, and the ever increasing need for our program. While the following are responses that came from parents of all economic boundaries, they all have a common message of thanks.

I'm sorry I am unable to send any money this month. I would like you to know I appreciate this program and am thankful and I will send $20 next month. Thank you so much for your organization to our children it is greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your kindness at this time of difficulty for my family.

I am very sorry I haven't the money again to pay for their lunches. I realize how important the lunch program is. Being a single mother of four children.... it is sometimes the only proper meal they get. At home, its a sandwich or a bowl of cereal for supper. I can help by donating my time...

At the present time my husband is out of the province looking for work. With my income and the bills I have to pay out, I am unable to pay the full amount... I am sure by next month I will be able to pay the full amount. Thank you for your understanding.

Thanks for another year of great meals (and greater convenience!) Enjoy the summer break "See you" in September.

I am very sorry not being able to include some money this month because of a cut off notice for my phone bill. I have three children and needed to keep my phone. I will try next month.

I'm very sorry I'm not able to include some money in this envelope. In the past, we included a cheque, which bounced. I am presently unemployed, but hope to get back to work soon. At that time, I will continue to support the school lunch program. Sorry for any inconvenience.

Sorry but I'm a single parent of three children and we cannot afford to send anything this month. Our income from social services is $456.00 every two weeks and our rent is $700.00 a month. If this is not ok, let the school know as we have no phone.

The reason why I'm writing the lunch program is because I'm only on social assistance and I had to fit two kids out for school and I don't get my cheque until the 13th...

I am writing this to let you know that while I really appreciate the school lunch program, today, I am simply unable to provide any money at all... I know you will never turn a student away, and I appreciate that. I feel bad about not being able to send money in today.

As an Early Childhood Educator, I know how important proper nutrition is. I applaud the SLA for making this possible for all children. As a parent, I thank you for making it possible for my son to eat well, even when money was tight. Thank you and keep up the good work.

This program brings me reassurance and peace of mind that my daughter will have something warm and nutritious to eat without any stigma. I am very grateful for the program

As a single parent, I want you to know that my family and I greatly appreciate what you do for us. Thank God for you and the supporters of the lunch program. God bless you all.