VICTORIA – New Democrat MLAs Grace Lore and Murray Rankin say families who are struggling with expenses for school activities will be receiving more support from their school districts.

“Everyone agrees that being able to join extra-curricular programs, such as sports and music programs, supports students’ wellbeing. However, many families face financial pressures that make it difficult to afford these opportunities,” says Murray Rankin, MLA for Oak Bay-Gordon Head. “Our government is committed to giving kids the opportunity to explore their interests and gain new experiences.”

The Greater Victoria School District #61 is receiving $469,000 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.

“Every child deserves access to quality education, and that includes having access to necessary school supplies,” said Grace Lore, MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill. “With this funding, we are making sure that every child in our community has the opportunity to succeed.”

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 Greater Victoria School District #61 received $2,253,290 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