Over the past month, the CCSS team has been working hard to pivot our programs to meet the current needs of our community. Working with neighbourhood partners we established the Cumberland Food Share, a program that includes both a permanent Food Shed and weekly deliveries of Healthy Food Boxes to Cumberland families and individuals. When schools closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 51 students lost access to regular subsidized meals. The broader community was also facing food insecurity, due to loss of income and other circumstances. The Cumberland Food Share is helping to make sure that everyone in our community has healthy, fresh food on their plates.

With our schools and recreational programs closed, many youth are feeling isolated at home. We moved our Youth Centre online, providing an opportunity for staff and youth to connect three times a week via zoom. They chat, play games and crack a lot of jokes.

We created a virtual space for Mamacentric, our support group for moms with babies. With students switching to online learning, we are helping to support families by coordinating the donation of laptops. 

Unfortunately, due to the provincial health regulations for COVID-19 we will not be hosting our annual Thunderballs fundraiser scheduled for May 18, 2020. Our weekly bingo nights, after-school activities, and community programs are on hold until further notice. 

This is a challenging time for everyone, including charities. Due to the cancellation of community programs and events we are experiencing a loss of revenue but continue to have ongoing operational expenses. Although the method of delivery has changed, we are working hard to continue providing services to local residents. 

If you are able, please consider supporting CCSS by making a one time donation or becoming a monthly donor. Donations can be made via our Canada Helps page or by sending an e-transfer to ccss.coordinator@gmail.com. Please include your mailing address with the e-transfer so we can issue a tax receipt. 

We look forward to a time when we can welcome you all back to our community school. In the meantime, stay home and stay safe.