Kootenay Lake School District Launches Pandemic Food Program Plan
By Contributor
The Kootenay Lake School District is acutely aware that in-school food and lunch programs are an important provision that helps to support vulnerable students throughout the entire school year, which is why they are extending a Pandemic Food Program plan.
The District has already begun implementing ways to support families and students that previously relied on these programs.
Last week, principals from schools throughout the district have been distributing grocery gift cards to families in need and connecting with local food banks.
“We know these are incredibly difficult times, and we don’t want our students and families to have one more thing to worry about,” says Ben Eaton, Director of Instruction – Innovative Learning Services.
Breakfast and hot lunch programs throughout the district are essential programs that deliver vital nutrition to students from low-income families. It is evident that many families rely on this district nutritional safety net for a multitude of reasons and circumstances.
Funding available through the Community LINKS (Learning Includes Nutrition and Knowledge) program is being used to purchase and distribute grocery gift cards to vulnerable families and administration is also reviewing budgets and finding other means to ensure those that are in need, don’t go without.
Principals are already directly contacting the families of vulnerable students to ensure they know about this service; however, the district is recognizing that due to the pandemic, others not previously identified, may now find themselves in need.
Families that have been adversely affected by COVID-19, whether from a loss of income, employment or other socio-economic circumstances are encouraged to contact their school Principal for more information about this assistance initiative.
