Land to Table was busy this month. Here are some of our highlights from October.
On October 5th, Network Director, Liz Blakeway attended the United For Food Summit, hosted by United Way BC (one of our key funding partners) at the Red Barn on the traditional territory of the Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN). What a treat to meet in person, exchange stories with fellow Regional Community Food Hubs and learn about TFN “celiselem” Community Farm. It was encouraging to hear about UWBC’s commitment to working with partners on the ground to create greater access to funding, streamline reporting, and provide greater support toward community impact and advancing advocacy.
On October 22nd, we hosted a farm tour for a group of students and staff from UBCO. Tour stops included farms and food processors located in the North Okanagan, including those who supply to UBCO Food Services. We began the day at Curlew Orchard with a tour of the farm, followed by a “Solidarity Apple Sort” (helping to box apples that will go to UBCO this week). From there we visited Mobile Juicing – a local juice presser and advocate for small farmers – where we tasted 8 different local fruit juices and purees (apple, cherry and plum were the favorites). The day ended with a sit-down discussion, and delicious local snacks and beverages at Cambium Cider Co. The group was delighted to have a beautiful day, a hands-on farm experience, and the chance to connect with the folks who are growing/supplying local food to UBCO. We learned about the challenges local farmers face, as well as the local impact that results from having a university commit to procuring local food. We look forward to a similar tour in the spring.
