CALGARY, AB – August 28, 2025— This September, Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids (BB4CK) is launching the Back to School to Learn, Play & Grow campaign to provide one month of lunches for nearly 8,000 kids. Running from September 2 to 29, the campaign’s goal is to raise $624,000, funding 156,000 nutritious lunches for students across Calgary.

New 2024 data shows that more than 1 in 3 kids — 38% of kids in Alberta — lived in a food-insecure household. It’s one of the highest rates among Canada’s ten provinces, and an increase of more than 80% in just five years. Without reliable access to nutritious food, children face barriers to learning, concentrating, socializing, and overall well-being. 

“Every child deserves to start the school year with the food they need to feel ready to learn, play, and grow,” said Bethany Ross, Executive Director of BB4CK. “A nutritious lunch helps kids stay engaged in class, participate in school activities, and have the energy to play and be active, both in and out of the classroom. Our Back to School to Learn, Play & Grow campaign is about coming together as a community so kids can focus on being kids and start the school year strong.”

This September, community support will have twice the impact thanks to the Matt Rumpel Family Foundation, which is once again partnering with BB4CK to match every donation up to $100,000. “We feel blessed to be able to support Calgary-based community organizations like BB4CK. Part of our review process is what service the organization provides, how well it is run, the need, and its sustainability. BB4CK hit all the boxes. It’s a pleasure to be engaged with BB4CK, providing healthy lunches to Calgary students,“ said a Foundation Representative. 

The campaign is also supported by Calgary Co-op and Community Natural Foods, giving more ways to make a difference while shopping for groceries. From September 2–14, donations can be made at the till in Calgary Co-op grocery stores and gas bars, and from September 2–30 at Community Natural Foods Calgary locations. 

“At Calgary Co-op, we believe every child deserves to start the school year with the food and energy they need to thrive. That’s why we’re proud to support BB4CK’s Back to School campaign, helping feed nearly 8,000 kids every day. With the support of our members and team members, together we can ensure children have access to the nutritious lunches they deserve.” Penney McTaggart Cowan – Vice President, Marketing and Member Experiences. 

The Back-to-School campaign kicks off September 2, and on September 8, Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek will join BB4CK volunteers in the Central Kitchen for a morning of sandwich-making, showing her support for local students as they head back to school. 

From September 2 to 29, Calgarians can join the campaign by donating online at bb4ck.org or in-store at Calgary Co-op and Community Natural Foods locations.

About Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids (BB4CK) 

Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids (BB4CK) is a community-funded charity dedicated for over 30 years to ensuring kids in our city have access to the food they need to thrive. Together with our BB4CK community – volunteers, parents, school staff, and donors- we connect kids to food through the school lunch program, summer camps, and by supporting families with grocery cards. We are committed to providing low-barrier, dignified access to food, ensuring kids feel cared for and supported by their community.