Victor Scott Primary has received a sweet donation of fresh fruit each morning and its students are reaping the rewards, according to principal Valerie Williams.Sun Life Financial has provided 130 students, between ages five and 11, with a nutritious treat each school day this year.Ms Williams said the firm initially thought about providing lunch, but that service is already supplied by the First Church of God.“There was a definite need for fruit. I thought they were just going to supply for those children that were coming without fruit, but they said they would do it for the entire school.“We were just excited, overwhelmed and grateful. Parents were appreciative because it cuts costs on their grocery bill in these difficult economic times.”Ms Williams said students were definitely happier in the mornings. The initiative also boosted their ability to make healthy eating choices; and took Victor Scott from a bronze level in Government’s Healthy Schools Awards scheme to gold status this year.Sun Life Financial’s administrative assistant Gerri Stewart came up with the idea.The former Victor Scott student told The Royal Gazette: “It’s been so rewarding.“I have been coming every single day since January and the children kind of have a special relationship with me.”The firm’s managing director Edward Betteto and corporate controller Duarte De Frias spent time yesterday handing out apples, oranges, watermelon and other fruits to scores of smiling children.Mr Betteto said: “Most of our employees, because it’s a daily programme, have been here. It’s a great way to give back to the community and so much more personal than giving a donation.”Ms Williams said Victor Scott Primary, which is located in an area hit hard by shootings and other tragedies, has been very blessed with help from the community.“I can’t even begin to describe the amount of support,” she said.The school honoured 80 volunteers on June 17 from organisations like YouthNet, Rise Above Bermuda, the Coalition for Protection of Children and Sun Life, all of whom have donated time and goods to the school.She said: “It means a lot to us because a lot of the students were coming without fruit, some of the time coming without lunch or breakfast.“The whole of the extra support, it really has helped the students to be more focused because they don’t have to worry about being hungry or where their next meal is coming from. They are just happy.”Due to the support from local organisations and a team of dedicated staff, Ms Williams said the students have not been affected by outside challenges facing the North Pembroke community.“Once they are inside the building it is a safe, comfortable environment for the students. It’s been one of my main goals that it not affect them.”