Grant Received: CES gets food program funds | News

Clatskanie School District Board member Kara Harris helped secure the grant, and explained the need for the funds. 

“The program is an outreach of Clatskanie Community Church, but it is nondenominational and serves all children in need. The program does not have an ongoing funding stream and has been funded primarily by donations for the first eight years,” Harris said. “With the increased need, it was necessary to seek funding through grants.”

Over the past year, CES Harris said there has been an increase in the number of students utilizing the program. There are currently 71 children participating in the program, a “huge increase” from last year, when approximately 40 children participated, according to Harris.

Harris applied for the grant through the Trailblazer Foundation website and found out at the award ceremony that CES was one of 15 grant recipients out of 89 applications. 

CES Principal Kara Burghardt said the school is “appreciative” of Harris’ efforts and that the grant will create opportunities for CES students.  

Harris emphasized that lack of access to food is an issue in communities, and that providing support can help students both inside and beyond the classroom. 

“Food insecurity is a real problem, in our community and others,” Harris said. “It is important to reduce the impact on the physical and mental health for children, which in turn will improve academic outcomes, and overall quality of life.”