A ninth chapter is underway of ensuring students don't go hungry outside of school.
The Starfish Program is making deliveries to a rising number of students who experience food insecurity.
The weekend bags of two breakfasts, two lunches, two dinners, snacks, fruit and vegetables are provided to North Okanagan students throughout the school year.
“We started the year with 209 bags and expect to exceed 240 bags a week in the coming months,” said director of operations Darryl O’Brian. “Last year we experienced a 68 per cent increase in demand over the previous year and we are already seeing increases of 20 per cent each week this year.”
The program has expanded over the past three years to elementary and middle schools in every community in the North Okanagan – Armstrong, Cherryville, Coldstream, Enderby, Lavington, Lumby, Okanagan Indian Band, and Vernon – over 20 locations in all.
“We are extremely grateful for our partners, Wayside, Keith Construction and Save-On-Foods, who help to deliver this program as well as School Districts 22 and 83 who identify those students in need and distribute the food bags each week,” adds O’Brian.
The program, run by the non-profit Kalamalka Starfish Society, relies on its over 50 volunteers to organize, pack and deliver the food bags each week.
“We believe every child should have access to a regular, nutritious diet. This promotes better health, learning, and the ability for students to thrive in their environment. We’re not just providing meals to students; we’re investing in their education, health and overall well-being,” explains Mary Jackson, president of the society.
With rising food costs and an increasing number of students in need, additional funding is critical.
A donation of just $25 provides meals for a child over a weekend, while $825 supports a student for an entire year. Donations can be made online at www.starfishpack.com/vernon/ or by mail: Box 1465, Station Main, Vernon, BC V1T 6N7.
The program was recently boosted with a $28,500 donation from Kalamalka Rotary's golf fundraiser in June. The third annual event drew nearly 100 golfers to the Vernon Golf and Country Club.
“In just three years we have raised close to $100,000 for three very deserving not for profits in our community," said Rob Bauml.
Jackson adds: “We work closely with Kal Rotary and are very appreciative of these funds, given the increased demand for the Starfish Program.”