A new charity in Fernie is working to fill the gap for children facing hunger outside of school hours.
The Fernie Food Security Society (FFSS), launched earlier this summer, aims to provide access to food for families in need.
The group has kicked off a fundraising campaign, Let’s Feed Fernie Kids — Full Bellies, Full Hearts, to support local children during after school hours.
“We realized many kids were going without meals after school, on weekends, and during school breaks,” said Melanie Jeanotte, a founding board member of the society.
While schools in Fernie provide breakfast and lunch to children, FFSS says the need continues long after the bell rings.
Across B.C., between 10 and 15 per cent of children live in food-insecure households, according to recent provincial estimates.
In Fernie, that translates to an estimated 672 missed meals per child, per year, a figure the FFSS says it is working urgently to reduce.
“That number really crystallized once we began working closely with the schools and community support workers,” said Jeanotte.
Bi-weekly deliveries and pickups are held every second Thursday from the organization’s space at 591 4th Ave.
Jeanotte said the response from the community has been strong, with local residents, businesses and organizations stepping up to offer support.
Still, she said the greatest need is financial, as FFSS is operating week to week.
A donation of $100 supports one child for two weeks, and families can choose to receive either food hampers or grocery gift cards.
Jeanotte said the society has placed a strong emphasis on dignity and discretion, offering confidential intake through school staff or direct contact online.
Families can also choose whether they want to pick up food or have it delivered.
“Our mission is to empower kids and families with respectful, dignified options that meet their needs,” she said.
Donations can be made at ferniefoodsecuritysociety.com or through the FFSS Instagram page @ferniefoodsecurity.
Until July 27, donations can also be made at the Independent Grocer.
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