Year at a Glance 2024-2025

Annual Report

Working with you toward a healthy, inclusive & vibrant community

CCSS is a registered charity that works to improve access to nutritious food, inclusive recreation, lifelong learning and networks of support in Cumberland, BC. Operating independently out of the local school, CCSS currently provides a Healthy Food Program, After-School Activities, Youth Centre, Community Programs & the Food Share.

Download a PDF Our Year at a Glance 2024-2025

Strengthening Food Security in Cumberland

At CCSS, we believe everyone- regardless of background, income, or circumstance- deserves equitable access to nourishing food. Through our Food Access Programs, we are working to build a stronger, more food-secure community.

For 25 years, our Healthy Food Program has provided breakfast, lunch and snacks to students at Cumberland Community School. Each month, the program serves over 5,190 meals, with 23% provided at no cost to low-income families.

Launched in 2000, our Food Share operates as Cumberland’s local food bank, supporting residents of all ages. This past year, CCSS delivered 1,790 food hampers, reaching 212 individuals across our community.

What CCSS Program participants have to say:

“CCSS does a great job of supporting our youth and community. I’m so thankful my child gets benefit from what CCSS offers. With all my heart, thank you.” 

“If it were not for the people who started the Cumberland Community Schools Society, and now the Food Share program, I do not know how I would have survived. Bless their hearts, for they are a group that goes above and beyond.“

“I’m eating better, which is translating into better mental health. I feel cared for. Even though I’m on disability, the care that goes into the food box makes me feel like I still have some worth and am treated the same as others. That matters to me a lot, to feel respected and valued.”

After-School Programs

Over the last year we offered 59 different afterschool programs with 303 children & youth participating. Programs included Mountain Bike Club, Trail Building, Art Classes, Baking, Gardening, Lego Club, Sewing, Outdoor Education and more!

We strive to make our programs accessible to all local residents by removing common barriers to recreation. Programs are offered at no cost and include a healthy snack. Sports equipment is made available to children who don’t have their own and education assistants are provided to support full participation of students with special needs. Parents describe our after-school activities as inclusive and a valuable opportunity for children to learn new skills, build confidence and connect with mentors.

Many families express their gratitude for the access to programs they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford.

Youth Centre

The CCSS Youth Centre provides a safe, inclusive and empowering space for youth to interact and access a variety of activities. Now in its 10th year of operation, the Centre is open three days a week, all year round, to youth aged 11-15. It’s a popular spot, with 156 youth accessing the service over the past year.

When asked why the Centre is important, one youth responded “acceptance here is fantastic and it’s a place we can all be who we are: youth”.

Life Long Learning & Support

CCSS also provides learning opportunities and support services for adults. This past year, 279 individuals participated in a variety of community programs including a weekly support group for moms and babies, art classes, family gatherings, and our 3rd annual Repair Café.

CCSS Events

CCSS loves our community and our events! This past year we hosted a Kids’ Disco, Bingo Nights, Cut A Thon and our popular Thunderballs fundraiser! These events brought the community together while raising funds to support our operations.

Community Partners & Volunteers

We are grateful to have the ability to collaborate and receive support from numerous community organizations and volunteers.

  • Cumberland Community School
  • United Riders of Cumberland
  • Lake Park Society
  • Cumberland Museum & Archives
  • Cumberland Forest Society
  • Comox Valley Farmers’ Market
  • LUSH Valley
  • Cumberland Community School PAC
  • Building Connections for Valley Families Project

Last year, our dedicated team of volunteers donated over 2,000 hours of their time! Our programs and events would not be possible without them.

A heartfelt thank you to our funders & donors.

Visit our supporters page to view our 2025 list of funders, donors & sponsors.

To learn more, donate or volunteer contact us.