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Info on financial support for families during the school year

Families needing financial support throughout the school year

Dear BC Parent/Guardian:

Inflation and economic uncertainties since the Covid-19 pandemic have made financial hardship more common for families everywhere.

As a school district, we offer support in several ways throughout the year for BC families who may need assistance when it comes to paying for school-related activities or necessities. Below is a list of ways the school district can assist your family:

  • Free and reduced lunch – Children of families who qualify under federal income requirements receive breakfast and lunch free of charge. More information here.
  • Weekend Backpack Program  – A district-run program that provides supplemental weekend nutrition to students on a weekly basis during the school year. There is no cost to join the program and no income requirements to participate. The Backpack Program is supported by community donations and is run by students and staff at the high school.
  • BC Caring and Sharing Holiday Program – A once-a-year program that provides non-perishable food items and gift cards to families prior to the December break. The Caring and Sharing Program is supported by community donations.
  • BC Caring and Sharing Temporary Assistance – When economic stress is overwhelming or unexpected, the district can provide needed assistance for families to help pay for things like field trips or school supplies. The Caring and Sharing Program is supported by community donations.
  • Community support and resources  – Our Student Support Services team and our school nurses can work with your family to identify community support and resources to assist with prolonged economic hardship.

You can use this Google form to receive more information about any of the programs listed above. If you are requesting support for more than one child, you may need to fill out the form more than once. ​Form responses are only shared with the individuals responsible for each program.

Your school health office is also a great resource if your child or your family needs assistance. You can reach out to your school nurse anytime during the school day.

Eagle Elementary

Elsmere Elementary 

Glenmont Elementary

Hamagrael Elementary

Slingerlands Elementary

BCMS 

BCHS

We want to provide all children with what they need to make every day successful. Every school in Bethlehem has staff and resources to help families who may be experiencing difficulties. We encourage families to take advantage of these resources. 

Sincerely,

Jody Monroe, Superintendent