#CulturePH - Jollibee Group Foundation and DepEd Expand Central Kitchen Model for School Feeding Program
The holiday season brings heartwarming news as the Jollibee Group Foundation (JGF) and the Department of Education (DepEd) join forces to expand the Central Kitchen Model for the School-based Feeding Program (SBFP). This initiative, aimed at alleviating hunger among school-aged children, promises to benefit thousands of students across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao over the next year and a half.
A Partnership for a Brighter Future
On December 11, 2024, DepEd Secretary Sonny Angara and JGF President Gisela Tiongson signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) at the DepEd office, marking a significant step towards enhancing the SBFP. This collaboration leverages JGF's expertise in implementing the central kitchen model, a system designed to streamline meal preparation and distribution, ensuring that more children receive nutritious meals with less time and effort.
The Journey of the BLT Program
The Busog, Lusog, Talino (BLT) Program, launched by JGF in 2007, has been a cornerstone in addressing hunger, a major factor contributing to low school attendance and high drop-out rates among public elementary students. In 2016, JGF shifted its focus to establishing central kitchens, reinforcing its commitment to better food access. To date, 41 central kitchens have been set up nationwide, serving over 270,000 students.
Empowering Communities
The central kitchen model not only feeds students but also empowers communities. JGF will support the development of training centers for central kitchen management, with 15 existing BLT partner schools serving as learning hubs. These centers will provide training and resources to DepEd personnel, local government units, and other partners, ensuring the sustainability and success of the program.
Training and Support
To ensure consistent implementation, JGF will create guidebooks and learning videos for DepEd personnel and BLT partners. Recently, 29 DepEd Central and Regional personnel participated in a four-day training led by JGF. These trained individuals will act as coaches, coordinating with local government units to set up and operate central kitchens, providing technical guidance to ensure their effectiveness.
A Shared Vision
JGF President Gisela Tiongson expressed her optimism about the partnership, stating, "By working with DepEd and the support of local government units, private institutions, and parent volunteers, we can help mitigate hunger and give students better chances of continuing their education."
This collaboration between JGF and DepEd is a testament to the power of partnerships in creating positive change. As the program expands, it brings hope and nourishment to countless children, ensuring they have the energy and opportunity to succeed in their education.
For more information about the Jollibee Group and its initiatives, visit www.jollibeegroup.com.
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