Comox Valley Schools said it has made significant progress expanding school meals across the district through its Feeding Futures school food program.
The district said the program now reaches about 44 per cent of its students, up from 19 per cent at this time last year, and is expected to climb to nearly 48 per cent in 2026 as new programs launch.
The level of access exceeds initial provincial targets and places the district among the leaders in British Columbia for universal school food programming.
“Equitable food access supports student wellbeing and learning,” said Thea Cockerton, food services coordinator. “As school food programs continue to grow in Comox Valley Schools, more students are able to access nutritious meals in a way that supports equity, dignity, and community.”
Between September and November 2025, more than 67,700 lunches were served across the district, with family contributions covering about 45 to 75 per cent of meal costs, depending on the program model.
During that period, cost-recovery universal programs, delivered with Community School Societies, served about 18,800 lunches, supporting broad access while maintaining sustainability.
Fully universal programs that offer daily meals with no cost recovery provided about 6,000 lunches, ensuring dependable access for students with the greatest need.
“We believe this model is successful for filling school food gaps for families because it was purposefully designed and incorporates a successful recipe: food that kids are comfortable with, food that meets their nutritional needs, and food ordering that is accessible for families,” said Joanne Barr, chairperson of the SD71 district parent advisory council.
As of December 2025, universal food access is now available at 12 schools in the district, with two additional programs planned for early 2026.
