Feed the meters, feed hungry school kids in Belleville

By Tyson LeonardThe Feed the Meters campaign means parking is free in Belleville this December but your change will still be accepted. Any change dropped in the meters will go to local Food for Learning programs.

Food For Learning aims to make sure no elementary school students go hungry while at school. The organization provides breakfast, lunch, and snacks during school hours for anyone who needs them.

Maribeth deSnoo, the executive director of the Hastings and Prince Edward Learning Foundation, said she has seen the programs benefit students first hand.

“We all know that whether we’re going to work or whether we’re going to school you perform much better if you have eaten something. It’s kind of like your fuel for the day to get you going,” said deSnoo.

She said not worrying about getting something to eat lets the students concentrate on their work, and helps their ability to learn.

The Feed the Meter campaign is in its fourth year and the Food for Learning programs have been in place for 12 years. Last year a record of $27,000 was raised from meter donations.

The communities of Quinte West, Picton, Stirling, and Bancroft are also involved in the campaign. Stirling and Bancroft don’t have actual parking meters but there are virtual meters placed throughout town for anyone willing to donate.