The notion that all good days start with a good breakfast remains as true as ever, but unfortunately many schools are having to step in to kick-start their students' day.

The nationwide welfare group Foodbank says demand for breakfast programs in schools is increasing, as tough financial times for parents start to leave their kids' bellies empty.

Foodbank SA runs breakfast programs at schools across South Australia, including Whyalla, Mount Gambier and Berri, soon it will begin to offer school breakfasts at Port Pirie as well.  

Foodbank SA general manager Leigh Royans says tough times are falling on business and families, filtering down to students now left hungry.

“Life gets tough very quickly when you're living off of meagre reserves,” Mr Royans said

“I think what you have to do is look at regional South Australia and say that they're being hit left, right and centre with the hardships that flow on from a tightened economy. There's an impact every time there's a closure of a regional business that impacts right across society in those regions.”

Foodbank runs extraordinarily helpful programs to feed the hungry around the country. Anyone wishing to donate food, time or money to help continue their valuable efforts can do so at this website.