Manitoba Chicken Producers (MCP) have committed $60 thousand dollars over the next three years to Agriculture in the Classroom-Manitoba (AITC-M) program.
The funding will help AITC-M expand its programs and resources, develop more educator workshops and student experiences as they work to promote agricultural education and awareness.
Executive Director Wayne Hiltz says the AITC-M initiatives are closely aligned with MCP's strategic plan.
"With so much readily available false or misleading information only a click away, it is so important for the agricultural sector to give students accurate, balanced and science-based information about our industry so they can make educated decisions on their careers and the food they eat. There is so much positive synergy in working with AITC-M, we are pleased to provide AITC-M with the three-year funding commitment so that they can continue to plan for the future."
MCP’s long-standing support has already yielded positive impacts.
Last year, financial and volunteer support from the group helped with the success of the Amazing Agriculture Adventure: Animals in Glenlea.
That program gave 650 grade 4 and 5 students the opportunity to gain a understanding of Manitoba's livestock industry and in 2023, MCP member Rachel Plett
led 4,960 Manitoba students on a virtual journey of her chicken farm during the Great Canadian Farm Tour.
Executive Director of AITC-M Katharine Cherewyk says the funding will significantly boost their ability to deliver impactful programs and resources that connect Manitoba's youth with how their food is produced, including chicken.
"MCP’s investment is remarkable because they also believe in investing not only money, but time, energy, and passion to the causes they believe in. Their team has dedicated more volunteer hours than any other industry partner to activities we offer, including hands-on programs and professional development sessions for educators."