Walk-In Fridge 4 Kids: Strengthening School Food Programs in the Battlefords

The Battlefords District Food and Resource Centre (BDFRC) through its Empty Stocking Fund, is deeply committed to supporting children’s health and learning by ensuring access to nutritious food in local schools.

Each week, school liaisons from Living Sky School Division and Red Pheasant First Nation pick up fresh food to be distributed to schools throughout the Battlefords area. This coordinated effort helps ensure that no child goes hungry and that students receive the nourishment they need to thrive.

To further strengthen this program, BDFRC invested in an additional walk-in fridge, significantly expanding food storage capacity. This upgrade allows the organization to obtain, store, and distribute greater quantities of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and dairy products. As a result, schools now have more consistent access to healthy food options that support student well-being and learning.

The impact of this initiative is far-reaching. Fresh food is now available to nine schools, serving more than 625 students each month, with the support of 12 community partners working together to meet the growing needs of children and families in the community.

This project was funded by the Saskatchewan School Boards Association through the initiative “Expanding School Food Infrastructure in Saskatchewan: Ensuring Equitable Reach”, with support from *Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s School Food Infrastructure Fund.

By investing in essential infrastructure like a walk-in fridge, BDFRC continues to build a healthier, more equitable future for children, one meal at a time.

‍