Chatham-Kent

Special Project Highlights

CK Flourish Program
In addition to the full-time and full-school Healthy Snack program, Chatham-Kent Secondary School (CKSS) also offers the Flourish Pantry for use by all students in need of food, clothing, and hygiene items. Students can ask for assistance by scanning one of many QR codes placed throughout the school. This program is run by CKSS students and staff, though OSNP Chatham-Kent provides funding to keep the Flourish Pantry stocked with health food items.

Supporting Families in Need (2020-2022)
As OSNP programming pivoted with school closures faced in 2020, 2021, and 2022, OSNP Chatham-Kent partnered with United Way to receive referrals to provide grocery gift cards to families with students. Grocery gift cards were also available at schools for virtual students as they picked up materials and resources.
This initiative transitioned into a partnership with TMG Foodland Dresden, who was able to facilitate the distribution of Food Boxes to families referred through schools. Food box distribution was well received by community members and continued until Aug 2022. Support for virtual students also transitioned to food pantry’s at schools for students to access when they attended.

Lunch Box Program (2021.2022 School Year)
Lunch bags, reusable containers, and reusable water bottles were provided to a number of elementary and secondary school students, along with food boxes to put together healthy packed lunches. Three food box menu options were available: meat, vegetarian, and halal. Students were able to receive food boxes throughout April, May, and June 2022, made possible by a grant from Harvest Fresh and OSNP Chatham-Kent’s partnership with TMG Foodland Dresden.