Sacred Heart Primary School, located in Derry City, has been announced as the latest project to receive much-needed funding from Donnelly Foundation.
The Foundation, which forms part of local vehicle retailer Donnelly Group’s community support strategy, delivered financial support for the school’s ‘Toast Time’ initiative, which provides students with free toast during break time.
Roisin Donnelly, spokesperson for Donnelly Foundation, said:
“At Donnelly Group, we know that local schools are a vital part of the community, and the Donelly Foundation is dedicated to supporting young people in any way we can to help ensure they are given equal opportunity to develop and grow.
“The ‘Toast Time’ programme at Sacred Heart is an example of a simple idea making a huge difference and it is fantastic to lend our support towards improving the emotional, educational and social wellbeing of children across all classes.”
Research from bodies including the Public Health Agency, indicates that a healthy snack break can yield significant benefits in terms of overall student wellbeing and academic performance.
Sacred Heart Primary School has recorded remarkable improvements in student attendance, mood and behaviour which has contributed towards an enhanced learning environment.
Louise Cunning, Principal at Sacred Heart Primary School, said:
“The wellbeing of our students is our top priority at Sacred Heart, and we are committed to creating a positive environment where all children have the resources they need to thrive.
“Our ‘toast time’ initiative has proven immensely popular and has positively impacted all aspects of school life. We have noticed a significant improvement in attendance levels, attention span and engagement in class and our teachers have reported improved results as well as happier children.
“The support of Donnelly Foundation has been instrumental in allowing us to keep this initiative going and we are hugely grateful for the funding we have received.
“Demand from our students is as strong as ever and we look forward to continuing to make time for toast long into the future!”
Donnelly Foundation has supported 18 projects across Northern Ireland, including Artigarvan Primary and Community Nursery in Strabane, Limavady Hockey Club and Pennyburn Community Playgroup in Derry, providing financial assistance to schools, community projects, sport clubs and more.
Northern Ireland’s largest independent motor retailer, Donnelly Group, has nine locations across the country including Derry, Mallusk, Belfast, Bangor, and Dungannon.
