Image: M. Vanden Bosch / PML / SD33 announced this week that it will distribute provincial affordability funds to groups like Bowls of Hope, Starfish Backpack, Murray Honda, and other community groups.
SD33 affordability fund

SD33 to distribute $900,000 in affordability funds to schools and their PACs, Bowls of Hope, Starfish Backpack, and Murray Honda coat program

Oct 8, 2022 | 6:05 AM

CHILLIWACK — Chilliwack School District will allocate about $900,000 of a total outlay of $1.5 million to various schools, their PACs, Bowls of Hope, Starfish Backpack, and other community initiatives.

Mark Friesen, assistant secretary-treasurer for SD33, prepared a report ahead of this coming Tuesday’s monthly school board meeting that offers a glimpse into how Chilliwack school officials plan to distribute the funds.

The B.C. government announced back on August 29 that it would provide $60 million to help school districts make sure students are fed and have the school supplies they need to be successful this year.

The one-time funding will be provided directly to school districts to help them expand school meal programs, make sure students have the school supplies they need and cover any additional fees so that students in need can take part in activities, such as field trips, a news release from the province stated.

Following initial consultation with Indigenous rights holders, staff, District Parent Advisory Council, and other partner groups and the public, the district has made preliminary allocations as follows:

* $645,000 to schools, who will be required to consult with their PACs and use the instructions from the Ministry of Education and Child Care to guide their decisions.

* $75,000 to Bowls of Hope to increase the amount, quality and nutrition of food offered to students and provide meal kits to families.

* $55,000 to Starfish Backpack to increase the number of hampers provided over breaks as well as adding more protein options to the hampers.

* $50,000 to Murray Honda in Chilliwack to assist with the company’s annual winter coat drive by providing both coats and boots to students in need.

* $10,000 to Chilliwack Youth Health Centre to enhance food options for youth at all its sites.

* $10,000 to Mémiyelhtel program to equip students there with additional support for food and school supplies.

* $75,000 for district initiatives to provide support to the neediest families identified by schools over Christmas and holiday times.

The remaining allocation of just over $600,000 will be distributed throughout the year as the district becomes aware of community initiatives.

Districts were required to consult with with parent advisory councils and school communities, as well as local First Nations and other Indigenous organizations, regarding local priorities that will best meet the needs of diverse student populations.

In addition to the $60 million for school districts, $3.8 million will be provided through the Federation of Independent School Associations (FISA) to support families struggling with increasing costs that access education through independent school authorities.