Nourish Cowichan is devoted to nourishing and supporting youth in the Cowichan Valley School District, determined to fight child hunger. Striving to change the high rates of child poverty, Nourish Cowichan firmly believes that every child deserves access to nutritious food.

History

Beginning in October 2016 as a pilot project by introducing breakfast to a single school, the transformative effects were evident as teachers and aides observed immediate improvements in the students.

To support the escalating demand from neighbouring schools, a partnership with the SD79 was formed and a  space to build a new kitchen was secured in late June 2017. After extensive renovations of a former metal shop into a food preparation facility, Nourish Cowichan moved into  the new kitchen in 2019.

With the closure of every school during the 2020 Covid pandemic, Nourish Cowichan pivoted, more than tripling its reach. With the quick response and support of Cowichan Valley School District 79, 4 other kitchens were opened, immediately providing hampers to food-insecure students and their families.

2024 Looking Forward

With a dedicated team of over 70 volunteers ensuring children across 23 schools receive nourishing meals, the organization also provides non-perishable weekend grocery bags to support students in need.

While the primary focus remains providing school meals to students, Nourish Cowichan has been focusing on food equity advocacy, sharing knowledge with other school food programs across BC and Canada, building food sources sustainability and mapping a way to universal food programs for our children.

As with all our Charities of the Month, proceeds from the sale of tasters at the Growler Bar, as well as the donations we collect, will be given to this awesome and important group of folks.

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