Students with the Delta Board of Education’s Trustee Val Windsor and Vice Chair Ammen Dhillon
Recently, students from the fourth annual Delta Youth Fire Academy teamed up with peers from Burnsview Secondary to support the Delta Firefighters Healthy Snack Program—a community initiative making a big impact in local schools. Together with off-duty firefighters, the students sorted and distributed $12,000 worth of healthy snacks to 29 schools across the district.
Launched in 2021, the Healthy Snack Program is part of the Delta Firefighters Charitable Society’s commitment to supporting students in need.
“Each month, the program delivers nutritious options for breakfast, snack breaks, and lunch. Schools submit shopping lists a week in advance, and off-duty firefighters volunteer their time to purchase, organize, and deliver the food using their own vehicles. Every dollar raised goes directly to the snack program,” said Warren Balzer, Delta firefighter.
“It’s pretty eye-opening to see the level of need in our community,” said firefighter Cole McQueen. “I didn’t experience food insecurity growing up in North Delta, but now we see it affecting more and more families. Knowing we’re helping students get the nutrition they need so they can focus on learning means the world to me.”
For the students, volunteering offered a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep the program running.
“They often see food being dropped off at school, but now they understand where it comes from and the effort involved in getting it out to schools,” explained Warren Balzer.
Volunteer work is just one element of the Delta Youth Fire Academy experience. Students also engage in first aid training and fitness tests ahead of the week-long camp in March, where they’ll learn firefighting skills.
“I’ve always had a desire to help in the community and become a firefighter,” said Ava, a Grade 12 student at Burnsview Secondary. “Firefighters do so much for our schools and neighbourhoods—I want to be part of that.”
Fellow cohort member Ryan, from South Delta Secondary, added: “I’m excited for the chance to give back, and I’m also really looking forward to the firefighter training that we’ll get to experience before Spring Break.”
The Delta School District expressed gratitude for the firefighters’ ongoing support.
“Both the Healthy Snack Program and the Delta Youth Fire Academy help prepare students for success by giving them a deeper understanding of the many ways firefighters contribute to the community,” said Lisa Chapieski, District Coordinator Student Options & Opportunities. “We’re so thankful for this collaborative partnership.”
Funded through firefighter payroll deductions and generous community donations, the Healthy Snack Program aims to remove barriers and stigma around food insecurity. There is no cost to schools or students, ensuring every child has access to the nutrition they need to thrive. For more information, and details on how to donate, please visit: https://deltafirefighters.com/delta-firefighters-healthy-snack-program/
