Province of British Columbia announces funding for School food programs

Providing for access to healthy meals and snacks at British Columbia schools has been given a boost, with the Provincial Government set to expand on its investment in local school food programs.

The province outlined the details to their plan earlier this week, noting of the importance of the food initiative towards school programs.

“As busy parents deal with global inflation, school food programs can help reduce the pressure on their wallets while tackling student hunger. Working with local schools to make sure our kids are fed and ready to learn will make a real difference for families and communities.” -- Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care. 

As part of the recent provincial budget, the Ministry of Education outlined that the province is investing $214 million over three years so school districts can create or expand local food programs in schools throughout B.C. The funds will be used for purchasing food and hiring dedicated staff to co-ordinate providing meals and snacks to students. 

The Provincial Government notes that the latest funding release makes for the largest investment in school food programs in the Province’s history. 

Prince Rupert can anticipate 350,000 dollars towards the Feeding Futures Fund

As part of this weeks funding announcement, the province has provided a chart which breaks down how much money has been distributed through a range of grants to the province's School Districts. 

Included in the financial review for Prince Rupert is the following:

2023/24 Estimated Operating Grant Block -- $26,155,457

Classroom Enhancement Fund -- $2,751,056

Learning Improvement Fund - Support Staff -- $99,002

Community Link -- $565,237

Annual Facility Grant -- $135,237

Pay Equity -- $706,027

Student Transportation Fund -- $117,597

Feeding Futures Fund -- $350,000

The full chart for all BC School District's can be reviewed here.

More on this weeks announcement is available here. 

The province has also created a new Website towards the School Food program which you can review here.

More notes from the BC Legislature can be explored here. 

A look at Education themes in the Northwest can be reviewed here.