GFF’s basic schools nutrition programme officially named in honour of Patricia Thompson

Proper nutrition is the foundation of a child’s growth, shaping both their physical and cognitive development. This fundamental belief guided the life’s work of Patricia Thompson, registered nutritionist and founder and executive director of the Jamaica Island Nutrition Network (JINN).

With a passion for early childhood nutrition, Thompson pioneered the Basic Schools Nutrition Programme, partnering with the Gore Family Foundation (GFF) since 2015 to promote proper nutrition in 11 basic schools across Jamaica.

The GFF said Thompson, who passed away last year, believed that instilling healthy eating habits from the earliest stages of life leads to stronger physical development and improved educational outcomes. A lifelong researcher, she was a highly sought-after nutrition consultant, educator, and author, advocating for the use of locally available foods – not only for their superior taste but also for their nutritional value.

UNWAVERING COMMITMENT

According to the GFF, her commitment to evidence-based nutrition was unwavering. She passionately opposed the adoption of foreign nutritional guidelines that lacked relevance to the Jamaican and Caribbean context, ensuring that her work was rooted in research tailored to the region’s unique needs.

Through the Basic Schools Nutrition Programme, she provided hands-on training to school cooks, equipping them with skills in meal planning, food groups, portion control, hygiene, and safety. She also supported the Nutrition-Friendly Schools Competitions, where cooks were assessed and awarded for upholding high nutritional standards.

In recognition of Thompson’s contributions,GFF Executive Director Christine Gore has announced that the “the Foundation is proud to honour Pat’s memory by officially naming this initiative The Patricia Thompson Basic Schools Nutrition Programme”.

Said Gore: “Pat’s legacy will live on in our schools as we continue to train and develop our cooks, ensuring the highest nutritional standards that set our students up for academic excellence.”

The GFF said Thompson’s dedication has left an indelible mark on Jamaica’s early childhood nutrition landscape, ensuring that generations of children receive the nourishment they need to thrive.