How are free lunches improving grades in Burkina Faso?

It was recess when we reached the primary schoolyard in Baskouré, a rural community in Central East Burkina Faso.

Children were running back and forth on the chilly morning, playing and exchanging stories about their recent school break.

They were happy to be back at school. For many, school life has improved significantly, especially at lunchtime when they receive a meal, care of Christian Children’s Fund of Canada supporters.

The change has had a noticeable impact on the children who didn’t always have food to eat at lunch. Now cooks earn a small incentive to prepare vegetables, beans, rice and more.

“This year, the school district ranked top. This is why the provision of food is as important as the provision of educational material,” said Mahamoudou Bikienga, head of the local school district, which serves 16 schools. “When children do not have food, it is [uncertain if they’ll] start and finish the school year. This is why CCFC’s contribution was highly important. We were the unique school to have a total food provision. And, this contributed to our achievement at the end of the year.”

We’re conscious of the impact of nutrition in the development of children — especially when it comes to supporting cognitive growth at school.

Thanks to our donors who have made it possible for children to learn comfortably with food in their stomachs and encouragement in their hearts.

Help provide food to those in need.

About Children Believe

Children Believe works globally to empower children to dream fearlessly, stand up for what they believe in — and be heard. For 60+ years, we’ve brought together brave young dreamers, caring supporters and partners, and unabashed idealists. Together, we’re driven by a common belief: creating access to education — inside and outside of classrooms — is the most powerful tool children can use to change their world.