Surrey School Program Supports Struggling Families with Essentials

A dedicated initiative at K.B. Woodward Elementary in Surrey, British Columbia, is working to ensure that families in need have the resources to send their children to school daily. Principal Lianne McBride has been a cornerstone for approximately 20 to 30 families who struggle to meet basic needs, providing support through programs like the Adopt-A-School campaign.

Last year, McBride utilized funds from the provincial government’s family affordability program, along with a $2,500 emergency fund from The Vancouver Sun, to assist families facing hardships. However, the cancellation of the $20 million affordability fund before the September school term has left many families without vital resources.

Despite this setback, McBride continues to rely on support from The Vancouver Sun Children’s Fund, seeking a $3,000 grant to help families during emergencies. She recounted a poignant encounter with a mother who, upon dropping her children off at school, expressed her distress about not having food until later in the week. McBride acted swiftly, gathering staff and utilizing available funds to provide essential grocery items.

“It was a big thing to lose the affordability fund,” McBride stated. “I have regular streams of families wanting to come and see me for gift cards.” The financial assistance not only helps families meet immediate needs but also encourages them to engage more with the school community, fostering a sense of belonging.

Addressing Attendance and Nutritional Needs

K.B. Woodward Elementary is also part of the district’s Attendance Matters program, which aims to improve student attendance by providing breakfast for nearly 1,000 students across more than 30 schools. Research indicates that children who miss more than 10% of school days by Grade Four face significant challenges in graduating. Those living in poverty are particularly at risk for absenteeism, making this program crucial for their educational success.

McBride highlighted a young mother who exemplifies the challenges many families face. Having her first child at just 15, this mother strives to create a different future for her children despite limited resources. She often arrives at school early, with all her children in tow, to ensure they receive breakfast before classes begin. McBride noted, “We open up between 7 a.m. and 7:30 a.m., and she is often here with all her kids.”

The mother also receives gift cards to purchase groceries, especially during holidays when expenses can be particularly burdensome. To further support her, McBride used Adopt-A-School funds to provide essential items, including high-quality umbrellas for rainy days and footwear for the changing seasons. “She comes when it’s raining because we provide them with boots and umbrellas,” McBride explained.

Community Support and Accessibility

The challenges faced by families like this young mother underscore the importance of accessible support systems. McBride noted that while community resources exist, they often come with strict guidelines that make them difficult to access. “What The Vancouver Sun Children’s Fund offers is less of a barrier so we can give help to families,” she said.

Importantly, 100% of donations made to the Adopt-A-School program go directly to supporting students and their families, with no administrative fees deducted. This commitment to transparency ensures that every dollar raised has a meaningful impact on the community.

For those wishing to contribute, donations can be made online through the Vancouver Sun Children’s Fund website or by calling directly to make a contribution. As the new school year unfolds, initiatives like Adopt-A-School remain vital lifelines for families striving to provide a better life for their children.

This program not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a supportive community that encourages educational engagement, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive in school, rain or shine.