A family with the food they received through the Kalamalka Starfish Program's meal bag program (photo courtesy of the Kamlamalka Starfish Society)

By Liam Verster

Feeding Local Children

Fundraising campaign to help feed area school children underway

Nov 26, 2024 | 6:00 AM

The Kalamalka Starfish Society has launched its fundraising campaign to ensure local students are well fed.

The organization that provides bags filled with enough nutritious meals and snacks for area youth to get through the weekends is seeking donations from the public to make sure enough bags are filled to serve the North Okanagan.

The Society noted Bell Lumber and Pole would match donations up to the $10,434.75 mark, while Lloyd Davis and Janet Armstrong will also match donations up to $10,000, meaning people who donate will see their dollars go twice as far.

“We know that one out of every five children in B.C. don’t have enough food at home,” Mary Jackson, President of the Kalamalka Starfish Society, said.

“Food insecurity is hitting our communities hard. The rising cost of food and housing make it challenging for families to ensure their children have enough to eat, especially on weekends.”

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The Society noted that $25 will be able to provide a child with meals and snacks for one weekend, while $875 will see that student fed for an entire year.

“We believe every child should have access to a regular, nutritious diet, Darryl O’Brian, Society Vice-President, said.

“This promotes better health, learning, and the ability for students to thrive in their environment. We’re not just providing meals to students; we’re investing in their education, health and overall well-being.”

Donations can be made through to the end of December on the Kalamalka Starfish Society’s website.