The Kalamalka Starfish Society recently thanked some of its partners as it celebrates the sixth year of its highly successful backpack program that helps feed Greater Vernon school children. (Contributed)

The Kalamalka Starfish Society recently thanked some of its partners as it celebrates the sixth year of its highly successful backpack program that helps feed Greater Vernon school children. (Contributed)

Vernon backpack program celebrates six years

The Kalamalka Starfish Society’s backpack program feeds school children in Greater Vernon

MARY JACKSON

FOR THE MORNING STAR

The Kalamalka Starfish Society is pleased to be celebrating its sixth year anniversary, along with its partners, donors, and volunteers.

Partners to the program were recently recognized at a Kalamalka Rotary meeting and include:

• Vernon School District – Principals Rana Grace and Mike Sutch;

• Vernon School District – Gen Acton, board chair;

• Salvation Army – Neil and Jen Thompson;

• Okanagan Boys and Girls – Kirstie Blanleil;

• Save-On Foods – Brett Lewis and Alyssa Rakos.

“Without these partnerships the program could not be delivered,” says Krista Blankley, co-chair of the Starfish Backpack Program. “We are very grateful for their support, and the gift of their time and commitment.”

The Starfish Backpack Program delivers a weekend backpack of non-perishable food, fruit and vegetables to students in the Greater Vernon area who experience food insecurity. The backpack contains food for two breakfasts, two lunches and two dinners.

“Eating a balanced, nutritious diet plays a key role in ensuring students come to school ready to learn. We want our students to eat well and learn well,” said Vernon School District superintendent Dr. Christine Perkins. “Thanks to our partnership with Kalamalka Starfish Society, we will continue to provide health learning opportunities to all our students.”

For more information, visit:Vernon Kalamalka Starfish Society on Facebook, or https://starfishpack.com/vernon.

Mary Jackson is the co-chair of the Kalamalka Starfish Society

READ MORE: Vernon Vipers, Shaw, community help feed the need

READ MORE: Mounties deliver breakfast to Vernon schools

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