The Rotary Club of Abbotsford recently presented the Abbotsford Food Bank with a cheque for $33,268 in support of the Starfish Pack Program.
The club has been working with the Abbotsford Community Services Food Bank to help feed hungry children and families since the spring of 2013. The Starfish program was designed to bridge existing in-school breakfast and lunch programs with the absence of food for the students over weekends.
As a result of Abbotsford Rotary’s leadership and innovation, many other B.C. communities have implemented the Starfish Pack Program. National media attention on the program has resulted in inquiries from outside B.C. as other communities search for ways to address local child hunger.
This program has inspired the Abbotsford community to get involved and has over 50 local businesses, service clubs and faith groups involved. A full list of community partners can be found at starfishpack.com/abbotsford-partners
During the presentation, Jaslyne Sunday, a local third-year Pacific Summit College student, was introduced. She is being funded by the Abbotsford Rotary Club as the first “Starfish Intern.”
The pilot project created in partnership with the Abbotsford Food Bank will see the Rotary Club provide funds for three years to local post-secondary students studying in the areas of social service and non-profit management and opportunity to assist and learn from the Starfish Pack Program while earning academic credits.
Donors and volunteers are still required to meet the need locally. To donate, get involved or support the Starfish Pack Program, visit starfishpack.com.