School's not in session yet in the Okangan, but a new program will be served up to help families.
With the start of school just around the corner, many Okanagan families are facing more than just the usual back-to-school scramble.
In communities like Enderby and Oliver/Osoyoos 鈥� where child poverty rates reach nearly 17 per cent and 19 per cent, respectively 鈥� working parents are worrying about where their kids will go after school, and if they鈥檒l have enough to eat.
United Way BC is launching new School鈥檚 Out program sites in those communities.
"School鈥檚 Out programs offer children aged six-to-12 mental and physical wellness opportunities, social developmental and academic enrichment support, and nutritious snacks during critical after-school hours," said United Way in a release.
The programs are facilitated by Splatsin Tsm7aksaltn Society near Enderby, Desert Sun Counselling and Resource Centre Society in Oliver, and the Okanagan Similkameen School District.
For many families, especially those experiencing financial stress, these programs will be a vital source of stability.
"The School鈥檚 Out program offers kids a safe space, caring adults, and opportunities to grow,鈥� said Trisha Dulku, strategic initiatives manager at United Way British Columbia. 鈥淔or many, it also means a healthy meal they might not otherwise get. With rising costs and limited resources, more children are hungry. This program ensures they leave nourished, supported, and ready to thrive.鈥�
Additionally, School鈥檚 Out programming is also expanding in 琉璃神社 this fall. Through a partnership with OCCA Communities Association, this location will meet a rising demand for safe, inclusive spaces during the critical after-school hours of 3 to 6 p.m.
Building on successful programs in Peachland and Trail, as well as communities across the province, United Way BC鈥檚 School鈥檚 Out continues to grow, helping kids in rural and remote areas get the support they need to build confidence and social skills.
