The Richmond School District has begun allocating funds for school food programs this fall.
In April, the provincial government announced $214 million for the Feeding Futures program of which the Richmond School District was to receive $2.37 million.
Funds will be used for buying food and hiring staff to coordinate meals and snacks for students.
David Sadler, spokesperson for the Richmond School District, said Richmond schools have received an “initial allocation” of funds for nutrition programs such as breakfast and lunch clubs and snack cupboards for students.
“In implementing the funds, the focus will continue to be on enhancing and expanding nutrition support offerings across all schools, while ensuring the program delivery is stigma-free and flexible to meet the needs of students,” said Sadler.
“This fall, the district will be engaging in a consultation process with partner groups including parents, guardians and students.”
Consultation and actions are ongoing and “will continue to evolve” depending on the needs at schools, he added.
Families can reach out to their school principal confidentially for specific needs or requests for their children.
However, Gilmore elementary parent Chaslynn Gillanders previously told the Richmond News this can be stigmatizing for them.
“It’s sensitive,” she said. “As much as the principal is easy to approach, there’s that barrier.”
Canada is the only country in the G7 that doesn’t have school lunch programs right now.
-with files from Maria Rantanen, Richmond News
