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School District 8 receives funding for the Feeding Futures Program

A brick building with steps leading to the front door. Tree to the left and flags that say Wildflower School hang above the door.
811 Stanley St. in Nelson, home of the SD8 school board office and Nelson's Wildflower School. Photo by Scott Onyschak.
Scott Onyschak - CJLY - Kootenay • BC | 15-09-2023
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At their board meeting on Tuesday, School District 8 announced they have received funds for the Feeding Futures Program.

The program, which was announced in April, is the largest investment in school food programs in British Columbia’s history. The Ministry of Education and Childcare has invested over $214 million over the next three years. School District 8 received approximately $644,000.

Deanna Holitzki, director of instruction – inclusive education, provided a report for the school board at the meeting. The report mentioned that the Feeding Futures Program is for purchasing food for vulnerable students. Funds can also be used to hire staff and purchase equipment.

It is estimated that roughly 15% of students in the district will qualify for the Feeding Futures program. An exact number is not yet known.

Feeding Futures is not a universal food program. The funding is equity-based, used to feed children whose families are unable to provide adequate nutrition.

Listen to the story on CJLY below:

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