THE Surrey Schools student meal program has received a financial boost, thanks to a recent donation of $30,000 from the Breakfast Club of Canada (BCC).

The donation from BCC is intended to support the district’s meal program operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. BCC joins other donating organizations, including the Vancouver Sun Children’s Fund and the United Way of the Lower Mainland.

“On behalf of the district, I would like to thank the many donors who support our school-based meal program,” said Surrey Board of Education Chairperson Laurie Larsen. “These contributions from local businesses, community groups, non-profit organizations and individual donors help us provide nutritious meals for students who wouldn’t otherwise have access.”

While the Provincial Health Officer has suspended in-class instruction to curb the spread of COVID-19, all students who were previously receiving breakfast and lunch from their schools are able to continue to receive meals.

“We’ve adapted the program so that we can safely continue providing meals for our students during the pandemic,’ explained Larsen. “The health and safety of our staff and students is always our first priority.”

The adapted meal program is currently operating out of nine sites, with a combination of drive-through and in-person pick up. Social distancing and other infection control practices are closely followed. A bagged meal and snacks are provided to each student Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

“The importance of these donations cannot be understated,” said Larsen. “Every dollar makes a difference.”

If you or your organization are interested in supporting the adapted meal program, please contact the district’s Business Development Office at 604-595-6066 or email donations@surreyschools.ca. A tax receipt will be provided for all donations of $25 or more.