Students at Holy Family had a fun and healthy start to spring with a special Veggie Bar on Friday, March 21, 2025. Organized by the Caring Cardinals in partnership with Chatham-Kent OSNP and supported by Matts Paper and Noelle’s Gift to Children, the event was part of Holy Family’s Safe Schools and Well-Being Team’s commitment to “wellness of the mind, body, and spirit”—specifically, wellness of the body.
Gathered in the gym in their school families, students were invited to sample a rainbow of fresh vegetables, beautifully arranged in a buffet-style spread. With a variety of crisp, colourful options—paired with a delicious ranch dip generously donated by Matt’s Paper—students eagerly filled their bowls and discovered new favourites.
Excited to connect with students, incoming Director of Education Lisa Demers, Superintendent of Education Michelle Sawa, Noelle’s Gift to Children Co-Chair Leah Cabral, OSNP Coordinator Rosanna Waldram, Board Chaplain Jamie Soulliere, Public Health Nurse Lisa Tetrault, and volunteers from IODE eagerly gathered to serve and share in the vegetable feast.
“I had so much fun serving veggies to our students today,” said Superintendent of Education Michelle Sawa. “I loved seeing their reactions—some kids lit up when they saw their favourites, and others hesitantly grabbed something new, only to realize they actually liked it! There were so many smiles, so many bowls piled high with colourful veggies. It was just a great reminder of how food brings people together.”
For Rosanna Waldram, Chatham-Kent Coordinator for the Ontario Student Nutrition Program (OSNP), the event was a powerful reflection of OSNP’s mission. “Bringing healthy food into schools is at the heart of what we do, but events like this go beyond just nutrition,” she shared. “They create moments of joy, connection, and discovery. Watching students excitedly try new vegetables, share their favourites with friends, and come together over good food is exactly why this work matters. It’s about more than what’s on their plates—it’s about fostering lifelong healthy habits and a sense of community.”
Holy Family’s Veggie Bar was about more than just healthy eating—it was a chance to strengthen connections. Principal Colleen Cogghe shared, “Our school community absolutely loved this! Bringing students together like this creates a unique and memorable experience, and we are so grateful to everyone who helped make it happen.”
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Holy Family’s Caring Cardinals, Noelle’s Gift to Children, Matts Paper, OSNP, CK Public Health, the IODE volunteers, and all the staff, parents, and supporters who contributed to this fantastic event. The Veggie Bar was a true reminder that nutritious food and community go hand in hand!
