Full Plates, Bright Futures Programme

Since 2009, Serendip Children’s Home (SCH) has operated the Full Plates, Bright Futures Programme, providing nutritious breakfasts to reschoolers (ages 3-5) from impoverished homes in Sri Lanka. This ongoing initiative combats childhood malnutrition while boosting school attendance.

The programme's importance has intensified since Sri Lanka's economic crisis. UNICEF reports that the country was already ranked South Asia's second-highest rate of severe acute malnutrition, a crisis exacerbated by the economic downturn. Many families now live in poverty, struggling to provide even basic meals. We offer balanced breakfast meals using locally sourced ingredients like rice, mung beans, seasonal vegetables, and affordable fish.

Beyond nutrition, our programme focuses on improving school attendance. Extreme poverty often forces families to prioritise survival over education, leading to school absences. By offering a free, nutritious breakfast, we encourage parents to send their children to school regularly. This fosters a strong foundation for their mental and physical development during these critical early years.

If you are interested in supporting the Full Plates, Bright Futures Programme , visit our Get Involved page to find out how you can donate.

Our Impact

Healthy Breakfast to Combat Undernutrition

We provide healthy breakfast meals that consist of local produce such as chickpeas, rice, dhal, spinach and dried fish.

Food for Over 400 Preschoolers

We have a wide reach of small preschools in the northern, central and southern regions of the country to which we deliver the breakfast meals.

Boost School Attendance

By offering a free, nutritious breakfast, we encourage parents to send their children to school regularly.

Food for Children from Impoverished Homes

Since the economic crisis in 2021, many families now live in poverty, struggling to provide even basic meals. We strive to combat hunger among the poor.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

Zero Hunger

We provide nutritious breakfast meals to preschool children. This is essential in helping them reach their daily nutritional goals.

Good Health and Wellbeing

These nutritious meals combat undernutrition in children under five years. Malnutrition during these critical early years can lead to increased mortality and impaired development.

Quality Education

By providing a nutritious breakfast at school, we encourage consistent school attendance. This helps ensure children complete their foundational education without being hindered by poverty.

Testimonials

My child used to come to school with an empty stomach, often too weak to concentrate. Since she started receiving breakfast, I've noticed a dramatic change. She's more alert, more energetic, and her grades have improved. I am so grateful for this programme. It's giving my child a chance to have a brighter future.

- Sudharshani (mother)

I've seen a significant difference in the children since the breakfast programme started. They are more focused, engaged, and eager to learn. Their overall health and well-being have improved dramatically. This programme is making a real difference in the lives of these children.

- Devi (Preschool Teacher)

Many of our students come from extremely impoverished backgrounds. The breakfast programme is a vital part of their day. It's heartbreaking to see children come to school hungry, but thanks to this programme, we can ensure that every child starts their day with a nutritious meal. This has a positive impact on their learning and development.