nom! Children is empowering parents and nourishing futures 

What started as a practical program to help prepare healthy family meals on a budget quickly became a catalyst for laughter, learning, and lasting change at home.

Summing up her nom! Children program experience and which of the five sessions she liked most, Kristina said, “All of them. I got something out of each session.” Each class offered something valuable – whether it was learning the nutrition and cost benefits of homemade food over packaged options, discovering cost-effective cooking methods, or realising that healthy meals don’t have to compromise taste. “I learnt a lot. I was excited to attend the next class each week – I actually looked forward to Friday, and not because the weekend followed!” A simple example was turning wraps into nachos, a delicious and budget-friendly twist that surprised everyone. 

Kristina said the program didn’t just change what was on the plate – it changed how her family now connects. “It’s made me second guess my choices. I’m preparing more cost-effective and healthier options. I’m providing more family-friendly environments when eating. Now, I create more shared dishes so the kids can serve themselves, sparking conversations about food and life. Dinner time is more engaging and we are all trying new foods we wouldn’t have normally thanks to nom!”. With feedback like this, it’s clear to see that families are discovering that enjoyable meals don’t have to cost the world, and that trying new foods can be fun.

Kristina described the program as fun, welcoming, and inspiring. “What didn’t I enjoy? I enjoyed it all – laughter, learning, fun, food, teacher, environment. Knowing that my daughter was safe while I learnt to provide a healthier lifestyle.” the facilitators created an environment where everyone felt comfortable sharing ideas and learning together. “Let’s be honest, we were loud, and all had so many opinions. Jasmin The facilitator kept us all together and taught the best class.” Even when opinions differed, everyone had a voice, creating a sense of community and shared learning.

The impact goes beyond the classroom. “Yes!! We are eating healthier and more cost-effective, but it is a work in progress. I will continue to implement what I’ve learnt over the weeks I attended.” Kristina said her family is experimenting with new ingredients and teaching her children to embrace variety which has encouraged them to try new foods. “This has been the best class. We couldn’t have asked for anything more – except maybe a few extra sessions. I didn’t want it to end.” Kristina concluded. The combination of the creche for kids and engaging classes for parents created a unique experience topped off with an opportunity to sit down together to enjoy the food prepared during class made for the perfect recipe for success for Kristina.

Foodbank WA’s nom! Children Program is making a real, tangible difference in the lives of families with young children aged 0-5 years. Designed to empower parents with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to create nutritious meals, the program ensures children get the best start in life. It aligns with our strategic aim to empower people through education, giving families practical tools to plan and prepare healthy meals on a budget. This initiative is proudly supported through the collective generosity of Hancock Iron Ore, Hawaiian, and Channel 7 Telethon Trust.

Our nom! Children Program isn’t just about food – it’s about family, community, and creating healthier habits that last helping to give WA children the best start in life.