Apr. 30, 2026

In 2024, the Healthy Horizons Foundation (HHF) supported over 150 students at Rossignol High School in Île-à-la-Crosse with access to healthy daily snacks and a monthly hot breakfast through its Nutrition Program. With a large Métis population, Île-à-la-Crosse is a northern village in Saskatchewan where access to a wide range of nutritious food options can be challenging.

Pictured above: From left to right, School Principal Elaine Favel, Northern store team members including retired Grocery Supervisor Flora Desjarlais, Grocery Clerk Jonathan McLean, and GM Supervisor Claire Daigneault; School Cook Jessy Corrigal; with Nutritionist Volunteer Clay Whitney at the cheque presentation.

With $15,000 in support from HHF, delivered over 170 school days, the program supported students in Grades 7 to 12 meet at least two daily recommended nutrient intakes. The initiative was made possible through meaningful partnerships with community volunteers and school staff, and fostered a positive school culture centred on health and well-being.

Students also developed essential gardening and food preparation skills by growing, maintaining, and harvesting fresh ingredients from the school greenhouse to support the newly established salad bar. By providing nourishing food options and accommodating diverse dietary needs, the program plays a critical role in building healthy habits and long-term disease prevention. When local educational institutions underscore the importance of proper nutrition and healthy living, they inspire youth to keep pushing toward success.

Pictured above: Students learning harvesting and food preparation methods. 

“I love seeing the students get excited for the break to eat the snack that the nutritionist prepares, because the aroma can be smelled across our hallways,” shared Principal Elaine Favel. “It’s a great way for the school to promote healthy eating.” 

The Healthy Horizons Foundation, established by The North West Company, is proud to empower youth in northern and Indigenous communities to build, strong, healthy lifestyles through grants that support communiy-led programs focused on Health & Well-being, Culture & Education, and Nutrition & Food Security.