Food for Thought: Volunteering at Nourish Cowichan

9 July 2026Fiona C, Hope ‘26

Back in May, most students were focused on AP exams, final exams, or summer plans. But for a dedicated group of volunteers from the B-Well program, the focus consistently remains on a different kind of purpose: ensuring healthy meals to help children in our community.

Nourish Cowichan is a non-profit organization that devotes its time and efforts to supporting youth in the Cowichan Valley School District. Driven by a team of 70+ volunteers, board members, and donors, they are on a mission to provide equitable access to nutritious meals for students, fueling them to learn and succeed in their education. Rachelle S, Hope ‘27, reflects, “The energy of the staff members is always so high with energy and enthusiasm, it inspires us to contribute to helping them!”

Recently, a group of students has been heading to the Nourish Cowichan kitchen to get their hands dirty, from prepping meals to cleaning the kitchen. These volunteers are tasked with assembling balanced meals using resources donated and gathered by the community. Students who volunteered mention how they have learned more about how to properly sanitize and sweep kitchen equipment for food safety. Whether it is cutting apples for apple crumble, peeling carrots, or packing ziplock bags with caesar salad, students have the opportunity to learn more about community initiatives and how nutritious meals can benefit our focus and education.

Stella B, Hope ‘27, comments, “Nourish was a great experience where I got to help clean and cook to support local students and families in need.” As this initiative by B-Well continues in the future, students will learn about the importance of community involvement and food safety, while being able to bond with other students and get to know each other throughout the volunteering process.

A huge thank you to those who have participated in volunteering for Nourish Cowichan, both past and present. As staff B-Well sponsor Ms Folk adds, “It is amazing to see how effortlessly our Brentwood students have stepped up. They didn’t just observe, they consistently help out with the staff at Nourish Cowichan, and it is great to see.”

Students are leaving behind more than just prepped meals: they leave a lasting impression on the community that ensures no student in the Cowichan Valley has to face the school day on an empty stomach.

Fiona C, Hope ‘26

Where Students Choose To Be