United Way BC expands after-school support program to Buick Creek

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — A B.C. non-profit is expanding its after-school support program to reach more children in rural northern communities.

This fall, United Way BC will launch its School’s Out program in Skidegate and Buick Creek, where child poverty rates sit at nearly 28 per cent and 17 per cent, respectively, according to a report from the First Call Child and Youth Advocacy Society. 

According to United Way BC, the program offers children aged six-12 a safe and supportive space after school, providing nutritious snacks, academic enrichment and mental and physical wellness activities.

“For many, it also means a healthy meal they might not otherwise get,” said Trisha Dulku, strategic initiatives manager at United Way BC. 

“With rising costs and limited resources, more children are hungry. This program ensures they leave nourished, supported and ready to thrive.”

In Skidegate, the program will be delivered through Local Food to School, while in Buick Creek, Blueberry River First Nations will oversee operations.

The expansion builds on existing programs in Houston, Prince George, Saik’uz First Nation and other communities across the province. 

United Way BC says the goal is to ensure children in rural and remote areas have access to the same opportunities and resources as their urban peers.

Registration for the School’s Out programs varies by community. Existing programs in Houston and Prince George operate on a referral basis through local school districts, teachers, support staff and counsellors.

In Buick Creek, Skidegate and Saik’uz First Nation, registration works directly with Indigenous communities and families on Reserve to meet the unique needs of those areas.

For more information or to support the School’s Out programs, visit uwbc.ca/kids.