Starfish program delivering healthy food to kids

Oct 1, 2020 | 5:34 AM

The Kalamalka Starfish Society now provides 78 Starfish packs to 11 different schools in the Vernon area.

The program, which was formed with Kalamalka Rotary four years ago, delivers food packs to children who face food insecurities, with each pack providing enough for two breakfasts, two lunches, two dinners, fresh fruit and snacks for the weekend.

“The need in Vernon for a consistent, heathy food supply is surprisingly significant,” said Krista Blankley, president of the society. “We know that COVID has impacted many local families. During the spring, we were able to continue working with the school district to ensure food delivery continued. Today, we are happy to start delivering packs again for the new school year.”

Starfish packs (submitted photo)

“We are on a low income, so with three kids the program helps us a lot,” said one Vernon mother. “My son is very excited to pick up his pack from school. He loves the healthy cereal with almonds and the granola bars. He unpacks it all himself, puts things away and helps to plan dinners for the family.”

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When Kal Rotary started the Starfish Pack program in 2016, 20 packs were delivered to schools, but that’s been expanded to 78 thanks to community donations.

“We have a number of incredible partners, donors and volunteers who make it possible for us to deliver an essential need,” said David Spencer, Kalamalka Starfish Society vice president. “We are also very thankful to everyone who made a donation at last years’ Kal Rotary Dream Auction. Over $64,000 was raised within minutes and we look forward to increasing the number of packs we provide soon.”

“Providing well balanced meal options to children has been linked to healthy growth and development,” said Michael Sutch, Principal at Alexis Park. “Without these packs, many of our families would go hungry over the weekend. Our students, families and staff are so grateful for the Starfish Packs that come every week.”

For more information on the Starfish Pack program or to make a donation, visit www.starfishpack.com/vernon

The Starfish Pack Program is named after the well-known Parable of the Starfish, which illustrates the importance of helping even just one life in need.

by Pete McIntyre

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