Beyond Breakfast: Exploring What Works for Schools Delivering School Breakfast Programs in Queensland, Australia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Education Policy
• Social Work

Background:

• School-based food relief (SBFR) programs address immediate student hunger.
• SBFR in Queensland, Australia, was expanded during COVID-19 to combat rising food insecurity.
• Evaluation of Y Queensland's SBFR programs focused on delivery practices and food insecurity outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of school-based food relief programs.
• To identify successful program delivery practices.
• To assess the impact on student food insecurity and school connectedness.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-method, multi-case study across four schools.
• Descriptive survey of 46 schools receiving SBFR support.
• Data collected from school staff perspectives and experiences.

Main Results:

• Five key characteristics of effective SBFR delivery identified: welcoming environments, social connection, inclusion, adaptability, and community collaboration.
• Effective programs improved food security and school connectedness.
• These impacts were particularly crucial during COVID-19 disruptions.

Conclusions:

• Successful SBFR programs are adaptable, equity-focused interventions.
• These programs create supportive environments, reduce stigma, and enhance social connection.
• SBFR effectively addresses food insecurity during public health emergencies.