EP Foster Elementary School is expanding its support for families with the launch of a new monthly Food Pantry, created specifically to serve the EP Foster school community. This initiative is made possible through a partnership with Food Share of Ventura County and the school’s OCEAN Afterschool Program.

The Food Pantry will provide EP Foster families with access to nutritious dry goods at no cost. Each participating household will receive one full bag of food, generously donated by Food Share of Ventura County, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fighting hunger and supporting local communities.

Food distribution will occur monthly. EP Foster families who are interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the OCEAN Afterschool Program for additional information.

“For the students enrolled here at EP Foster and our OCEAN Afterschool Program, enrichment doesn’t end at school,” said Daniel Flores, Site Director of the EP Foster OCEAN Afterschool Program. “We want to enrich students and families at home as well with good, healthy food. We are so excited to partner with Food Share to bring this important resource to our families.”

EP Foster Principal Vanessa Contreras emphasized the importance of the program’s community impact.

“Our school is more than a place of learning—it is a community,” Contreras said. “The launch of this monthly food pantry reflects our deep commitment to caring for our families and ensuring they have the resources they need to thrive. We are incredibly grateful to Food Share of Ventura County for partnering with us to support the health and well-being of our EP Foster families.”

OCEAN Afterschool programs are designed to support students beyond the school day by strengthening academic growth, promoting healthy lifestyles, and providing enriching experiences that connect school and home.

“OCEAN Afterschool serves as a bridge between school and home to support our students’ academic growth and healthy lifestyles,” said Dr. Lorelle Dawes, Director of Expanded Learning. “We are pleased that this partnership with Food Share will support students and families in these efforts.”

Similar food support programs have also been launched at other schools across the district, reflecting a shared commitment to ensuring students and families have access to essential resources.

Families in need of food support for their student or household are encouraged to reach out to their school site or contact the district’s Student Services Department at 805-641-5000, where staff can help connect families with available resources.

This new Food Pantry reflects the ongoing commitment of Ventura Unified School District, EP Foster Elementary School, and OCEAN Afterschool to support students and families beyond the classroom by addressing essential needs that contribute to student success and overall well-being.