LANGLEY – New Democrat MLAs Andrew Mercier and Megan Dykeman say families who are struggling with expenses for school activities will be receiving more support from their school districts.

“Getting to join a sports team or participate in band is a great way for kids to build their confidence and be part of a team,” says Andrew Mercier, MLA for Langley. “Every kid should be able to participate in these activities without families having to worry about financial barriers. That’s why our government is committed to supporting students.”

The Langley School District (35) is receiving $781,000 from the province to help schools provide support directly to families.

Funding will help pay for student necessities, such as school supplies, school fees and class trips, as well as additional costs associated with joining a school sports team or music program.

“Making sure that kids have every opportunity to succeed in their learning and personal growth is an issue that’s close to my heart,” says Megan Dykeman, MLA for Langley East. “As a former Chair and Trustee of the Langley Board of Education, I am thrilled to see our school district receiving this provincial support.”

The support comes from the Student and Family Affordability Fund, which is being replenished with an additional $20 million this spring. More than $60 million has been provided to school districts provided through this program over the past two years.

This is on top of the largest investment in school food programs in the province’s history. The Feeding Futures Fund has dedicated $214 million over three years to create and expand local school food programs.

The Langley School District received $2,671,352 from the province for food programs during this school year.

Learn More:

Student and Family Affordability Fund: news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2024ECC0013-000293

Feeding Futures Fund: news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023ECC0020-000424