SAANICH – New Democrat MLAs Rob Fleming and Lana Popham say families who are struggling with expenses for school activities will be receiving more support from their school districts.

“More kids will be able to learn effectively and enjoy exciting activities thanks to this provincial support,” said Rob Fleming, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake. “This investment is part of how we’re continuing to address the needs of children and families in our community.”

The Saanich School District #63 is receiving $247,000 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.

“With this funding, more kids can spend time focused on learning, and participating in activities, while reducing financial pressures faced by their families,” said Lana Popham, MLA for Saanich South. “I look forward to seeing this new funding support more kids in Saanich to flourish.”

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 Saanich School District #63 received $862,717 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